Holiday Luncheon at my School

Yesterday was the last day of school before the Christmas break.  My principal invited me to the holiday luncheon.  I went so that I could see everyone before going back on the 3rd.  I had not seen anyone since the beginning of March, so I thought it would be nice to socialize with my friends without the kids around.

 

The whole ride there I was saying to myself, “You’re not going to cry!”  School was dismissing when I arrived and the first people I saw were my students from last year.  They were so happy to see me, and I started crying immediately!  So much for trying not to be emotional.  Their teacher said that when they heard I was coming back, they wanted to know if they get to go back to my class!  She is a friend of mine, and didn’t take it personally-ha-ha.

 

Everyone-teachers, aides, secretaries, custodians, bus drivers and their aides- were so happy to see me, and it was really great to be back.  Teachers who I had known for years who are survivors told me their stories.  People kept telling me that I look great.  And everyone kept telling me, “You’re home.”  And I really felt like I was home.  I teach in a great school and we really are like a family.  I won a poinsettia plant and the staff present from the principal and vice-principal was waiting with my name on it.  There were times when I wondered if people were forgetting me.  It was so wonderful to see that not only wasn’t I forgotten, but it was as if I never left. 

 

I met my substitute face-to-face for the first time.  She brought me to the classroom to show me around a bit.  It was strange because things were not exactly like I would arrange them.  But that is fine and I will make it my room again.  I felt bad because I could she that she will be sad to leave the kids. 

 

Everyone kept saying that they were praying so hard for me to get better and return and what a Christmas present this is.  It truly is the best present that I could ask for this year and I am so grateful for everyone who made it possible.

Merry Christmas to everyone!