Classroom Reflections

Funniest moment of the week so far:
Yesterday giggles building on one side of my classroom, and quickly spreading across the whole classroom, caught and brought my attention to one of my students (male) whose desk is along the outside and faces in towards the middle of the classroom. I could only see his shoulders and head from where I stood in the front, middle of the classroom, but something about his face and body posture seemed strange. As I walked around to the back of his desk I noticed that he wasn't sitting on his chair but rather it was like his chair had swallowed him (I don't know how to describe it other than it's like the picture below, only a 7-year-old boy, not a cat, and the chair and boy were much more equal in proportion). I had to tell the whole class to put their heads down while the boy pulled (he was almost stuck) the chair off his stomach and down over his legs before climbing out of it. I just knew if everyone else kept looking and laughing I wouldn't be able to keep a straight face. So, I got my own private show and boy was it entertaining, just watching him try to stand up and back away from his desk with the chair attached to him! (Let's just say, this wouldn't have happened if he had 6 feet on the floor like I always tell the class!) PRAISE the Lord for good humor and for the different personalities of all his sons and daughters!

Proudest moment of the week so far:

This moment didn't start off proud, but rather disappointing and frustrating. I had a student who chose to lie about something that happened in class. I didn't know for sure that it was a lie at first, but after talking with my aide, I realized that we had both been told different stories by the student. But, the Lord gave me wisdom in seeing the situation for what it was and knowing how to handle it...what to do and what to say. After several repeats of silent contemplation, followed by conversation, followed by frustration and tears, the student eventually broke down and told the truth. I was so proud of him and I could tell he was proud of himself too! It was a true moment of character growth on his part and teacher/shepherding learning on my part. We ended up having a nice lunch together, just the two of us, talking and laughing and getting to know one another better. PRAISE the Lord for his marvelous ways and PRAISE the Lord that I am free to speak His name and truths and teach from His book at my school!

Looking forward to and anxious for...
Open House this Friday! On Friday morning my students will leave the room for about 45 minutes and their parents will take their places at their desks. I will share with parents a little about how the classroom runs, rules and expectations, and curriculum. We will also have the opportunity to pray together. My students' parents have been nothing but warm, welcoming, and encouraging, but I am still anxious about open house as it is all new for me.
If you think of it, say a little prayer for...confidence and calmness for me as I meet with parents and for good communication.