Yes, it is Christmas time again. My classroom has been decorated and lights strung all over the place. As my homeroom slowly became the most decorated, lit up classroom so did my status rise as being the teacher with the “cool” homeroom. Students began asking to move to my homeroom. I laughed, allowed myself a moment of “warm fuzzy” feeling, and then was brought shatteringly back to earth when the darlings followed up with, “but I really like my homeroom teacher now”. Sigh. Kids are so fickle in their attentions.
Kids say the funniest things – sometimes not intending to – and that makes it all the funnier. They are so sweet, and sixth graders are trying so hard to grow up too quickly. One teacher shared this story with me, as they were studying vocabulary:
Teacher: Ok, who knows what ‘linen’ is?
Student: *hand shooting up in excitement* I know! I know what that is!
Teacher: What is it?
Student: Your dryer makes it! It’s that stuff you clean out of the little trap thing!
And, of course, there are the many thousands of time each day kids ask us questions that, in our minds, seem very obvious (in homeroom, study hall time):
Student: Mrs. Moore, what am I supposed to do now?
Me: Did you get your make up work done?
Student: No.
Me: *puzzled* Then why are you asking me what to do? You should do your work.
Student: Oh. Really?
December is full of chances to do different activities and fun things. It is also a time of ending the first semester, planning parties, and a two week vacation. (Can I hear a big “hooray” for that?) Yesterday a student asked me what I want for Christmas. Now, this is a question even my husband hates to ask me, because I generally ask for things like fuzzy socks, or flooring for the bathroom. Well, I told this student I wanted “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.” She looked at me for about 5 seconds, and then responded with a straight face, “I think I’ll just get you chocolate.” I had to laugh. Chocolate works.
Soon this week will end, and so will our first semester. As all of you and my students travel and see family, I have the same wish for you – I hope you have a safe, happy holiday surrounded by people who love you. Merry Christmas!
Christine Moore currently holds a degree from Howard Payne University and recently earned her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. She is now working on her Ph.D. in Educational Technology. Married with four children who attend Brownwood schools, Christine teaches 6th grade reading in Brownwood and has been working in education at various levels for the past 15 years. Christine welcomes your questions and comments and would love to hear from you!