We can all heave a huge sigh of relief….spring break is coming! This week approaching marks the final big break before our TAKS tests in April. The kids and teachers have all been working hard, and believe me when I tell you this break is well-deserved and much needed!
As I looked around my classes today I recognized the clear signs of “spring fever”. Some of the things the kids said, for instance, revealed the fact that their minds are elsewhere. We are working on completing a project – due before the holiday – and the kids are just not focused. Here is a conversation I had….over and over and over….all day long.
“Mrs. Moore, what do I do?”
“Well, did you read the directions?”
Long pause….. ”No.”
“Maybe you should try that first.”
See what I mean? The kids are ready for a break.
“Mrs. Moore, I don’t understand.”
“What is it you don’t understand?”
“I don’t know.”
“Well, which part confuses you?”
“Huh?”
“Ok. Try reading the directions and come back.”
To be very honest with you, it is not just the kids who are ready. Earlier this week I was frantically searching for my work keys. I was dumping bags and rifling through papers and rummaging through the things on my desk. The keys were in my pocket.
Yep. Spring break is coming and with it comes the promise of sleeping past 5 a.m. and a chance to catch up at home. A little rest and relaxation – read a book, paint a picture, watch a movie, play with my own kids, and visit with my husband. The kids look forward to staying up a little later, sleeping in, and playing.
We know we have to enjoy this while we can….once this break is over we all know that our deadlines for testing approaches and there won’t be another holiday until Easter. On the positive side, however, once this is over we also know that summer is just around the corner. Teachers find themselves asking how they will manage to get all the instruction done in such a short amount of time….kids find themselves wondering why on earth the school year is SO long! All of us are united, however, in our celebration of the upcoming holiday….Thank goodness for spring break!
Christine Moore currently holds a degree from Howard Payne University and is actively working toward a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Married with four children, Christine teaches 6th grade reading in Brownwood and has been working in education at various levels for the past 14 years. Her husband, Jeremy, owns a local company that specializes in web design, custom computer builds, and on-location repair called DreamSoft Design at www.dreamsoftdesign.com. Christine welcomes your questions and comments and would love to hear from you!