As we are nearing the end of 2017, I begin to think about all the things I am thankful for in my life. I am blessed with family, friends, a home, and a career I love! The big things are easy to recognize and say, “I am thankful, I am blessed!” But what about the little things?

I received the kindest notes before the winter break from many of my students and their families. Little things that shared their gratitude for the, “the effort” I put into my work, for, “always having a smile” on my face and, “working so hard at loving” those around me. Students were grateful that I, “always make learning fun,” “make our classroom exciting,” or that our meeting day is their, “favorite day of the week.” WOW!

These little notes and comments about something that is my life work, are so uplifting and heartwarming! They inspire me and motivate me to continue to wake up each day looking for new ways to make my classroom an engaging, exciting, learning environment where we can learn and grow together and continue to work to make this world a better place.

Gratitude is powerful and can make a person’s day, week, year! So as I end this year, I want to share my gratitude!

I want to thank my administrators who support all my ideas and projects, no matter how big or small! They allow me the freedom and authenticity to utilize my passions and strengths in my teaching.

I want to thank the parents who trust me with their children each day. I want to thank them for volunteering to help with projects, for donating items for a lesson, for their kind words, and their consistent support as we work together for the good of our children.

I want to thank the students who come to school with enthusiasm, persevere in challenges, who ask for help when they are struggling, who share their ideas, hopes, dreams, and passions! I want to thank those who challenge me to raise my level of teaching as I search for ways to inspire and engage them. For their smiles, kindness, and love, I am deeply grateful!

We can all show gratitude each day! As I journey into 2018, I will continue to be grateful and to share gratitude. I will encourage my students to show others gratitude as we work to make this world a better place! Happy New Year!

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