Back to School

I woke up this morning and decided I’d accompany Luca to her 1st grade orientation. Luca wore her cute Levi skirt and polo shirt. Kim had fixed her pretty, blonde hair so it bounced when she walked.

We drove to her school and went into her new class along with a few parents and their kids. Most kids were accompanied by their mothers, but there was one other father there besides myself. Her teacher, Mrs. O’Donnell, welcomed us to her class. She was kind, soft spoken and very organized. 

I doubt that today’s classroom has changed much from the over 30 years since I attended first grade. The alphabet was strung over the chalk board. Cork boards lined the walls. Student projects hung off the back wall as did the large, white clock that if you listened closely could hear the second hang as it circled the clock face. I also saw a rack full of globes that could be mistaken for the perfect sized kick ball. The desks were nestled close together and as I sat at one, my butt barely fit onto the tiny blue chairs. Do you remember putting your knees under the desk and rocking back and forth until your desk tipped over and pencils went flying? Those were fun days.

I enjoyed the simplicity of the classroom and the feeling of learning and exploration in this classroom. As Mrs. O’Donnell explained her teaching style I sat there envious of her position and desire to help so many fantastic young children. It made me want to leave the technology field and go back to school so I could teach. Maybe one day I’ll be in a position to do that. In the meantime, I’m thankful to have a job that allows me the flexibility to come and go as I please and take off time when I need it.

Luca sat at her desk and listened to her new teacher. She was excited to be sitting next to a friend of hers named Laura. As she sat there, she looked back at me sitting a few rows behind her and flashed a huge smile. She was happy to be back in school and I was so very proud of her. She loves to read, loves to learn and I’m certain she’ll enjoy getting to know Mrs. O’Donnell.