At these special times, I can’t help but to reflect. I owe a great big thanks to my mom who has taught me so much about being a wife, mother, and kindergarten teacher. She and my sister started kindergarten together many, many years ago. I grew up helping her set up her classroom, watching her work her magic with children, and learning through her stories. During her career she found time to raise 5 children, work full time, write, speak and lead conferences nationally. I often swore to myself that I would never become a teacher (my dad taught, too), but in my heart of hearts I knew that I would.
Like so many moms, she believed in me when no one else did. Many of you know that I am terrified to speak in front of groups. After I gave a rather disastrous health presentation to a crowd of about 50 in college, the professor advised me to consider another profession. I was devastated, but did consider the possibility that he was right. My mom was the first person I called. I still remember that conversation almost 25 years later, and the confidence that she had in me, when I had none in myself. I have to admit this story goes through my head every year when I stand before a room full of parents on Parent Night. After 20 years of teaching, I still have those two voices in my head on that night, but I still listen to hers. Thanks, Mom and Happy Mother’s Day!
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