The last day before Christmas break
I remember this day fondly from teaching – in fact, I absolutely LOVED this day while I taught at the middle school level for 30 years! As I reflect on the, not only last day before Christmas break, I also am thinking about the several days before the break started. The kids were excited about the holiday coming for a variety of reasons and their behavior was in many cases, different during this period.
For the last day, my colleagues and I would plan activities that were designed to be FUN – we wanted the kids to go out the door at the end of the day with smiles on their faces as they left for home for several days. We knew that some of our students were going home to situations that were not pleasant and that school was their haven, the place that they were safe, and were happiest. We also planned the day so the students were engaged, so they had choices, and the schedule was varied from the normal schedule.
The day involved games, “holiday” activities, “making stuff”, food, parties, presents, laughter, music, silly hats, picture taking, and once again, AND most importantly FUN! To keep young adolescents occupied – hands, minds, and bodies, was a challenge that my colleagues (for the most part), were up for! After all, it wasn’t just fun for the kids but for the staff as well! Gosh, I wish I could find some of those pictures to share in this blog post.
Yesterday, my thoughts turned to the last week before Christmas because of an email exchange and a phone call that I had with two different arts teachers – one at the elementary level and the other at the high school letter. The names and schools are left out to protect the innocent. I know that many of you have the last week of school before Christmas vacation stories as well. And, that some of you have been counting down the days, hours, and weeks before you are released for a few days of relaxation and extended family time for the holidays. I am sure that each of you have your stories about kids and the “goings on” at schools today.
High school story… “from a teacher that is currently surrounded by high school students that have had toooooo much sugar, need help being reminded who the “Count” is, have not had enough sleep because of the bright moon…..and are reeling from thinking about what the holidays will bring…..and are crying for ice cream……..yes it’s true!”
Elementary story… “the second graders walked in to the art room wound up for the holidays. On top of that excitement, it was pajama day. So, I told them since they were in the jammies that I would read them a bedtime story. When one child asked if they could go to sleep it was all I could do not to burst into laughter.”
What’s your story? PLEASE do share by emailing me separately at argy.nestor@maine.gov or by posting it below in the comments. If you email me I will include it in a future communication. Thanks! and most importantly, please do something fun for yourself or your students today just for me! As those students go out the door and hop on the bus this afternoon put a smile on your face (as tired as it might be) and wish them a Happy Holiday!
me arts ed 