Au Wiedersehen...Goodbye!

Oh, my dear 1st block. I will miss each and every one of you. Parkview has been my home for (nearly) four months and to think of my life outside the four walls of this classroom is difficult. I hope you know that it's difficult not because of the school or the room itself, but because of you. In your very own ways, you have given me an experience that I will never forget. Being your teacher has been the greatest honor and I hope that you all respect yourselves enough to know that you are capable of great things. I have seen it in this classroom, and I know that you will continue to do so with Ms. James.

Over the past few months, I have come to know Ms. James very well. To be frank, I love her and so should you. She often says that she and I are kindred spirits and I couldn't agree more. My placement at Parkview was entirely serendipitous (look it up!). Out of all of the English classrooms in Springfield, I was given to her. Rather than proudly hold the reins the entire semester, she gave me freedom and we were able to create a community of learners that I hope each and every one of you is proud of. There is a truly wonderful teacher in your midst. I'll give you a hint: It's not me...or Robin Williams. ;)

Notice that Autumn's little friend is joining us.

Next time you see Josh C., ask to read his binder.
You'll have a good laugh. :)

There are too many stories to tell about the time I have spent with you this semester, but suffice it to say that I will remember them all. Nearly everyone was in class when we took our class photo (left), which makes me happy. However, one good photo doesn't mean that we won't take another. I plan on returning to check in on you, so be sure that you keep yourselves looking fabulous! Picture-taking is a valuable skill, as represented in the fabricated term "selfie." We are a class that values technology, are we not?

I hope that you all have a wonderful Christmas break. If you have not written me a letter and still wish to do so, Ms. James knows where to find me. I will write one back to you, as I did with other students.

For those of you who did write, thank you. Your letters brought me to tears and made me seriously contemplate staying forever without pay. I will cherish them always.

And for now, goodbye. Or, let's settle on see you soon. Goodbye is too final a word. :)