The 2017-2018 school year has (finally) come to a close, and what a year it was.

The final week of school seemed to stretch on and on as a result of the six days lost during our unforeseen walk-out. The final day for kids was originally May 24, and for many families, that’s when school ended. Vacation plans were already set, or parents were just ready for their kids to be done, so they were.

Others held on, past Memorial Day, into this week. It was a slow dwindling. My class of 28 became 26, then 19, then, by yesterday, only 13. Our day was pared down, too, only three hours. Those kids helped me move out of our old classroom and into my new one, down the hall. They hauled books and boxes and totes and posters. They organized bins and texts and art supplies. They made a huge job so much easier.

They also played. The kids brought board games form home, and I had several decks of cards, and they played with one another in a way that isn’t usually possible during the school year. They were patient with one another, and they were encouraging, but they were also competitive. They had had a great time. Even on the last day of school, they had things to reveal to me that I hadn’t seen before.

I will miss these students, as I miss all the kids who have come through my room. Each year the group has its own dynamics, and each group leaves its mark on my heart. This year is no different. I’m honored to have been their teacher.