Gone, but not forgotten

Yesterday was bittersweet. It was the day I said good-bye to one of my students for quite awhile. It was also our last day of school for the year as well as the day of his 'graduation.' As we were walking out to the buses for the final time, one of the girls grabbed E's hand and held it for awhile saying, "I'm sad." I didn't tell them that I was too!

As I look back, I can't help but reflect on the cheerfulness that E brought to our classroom. Mr. Sunshine always arrived with a loud "Good Morning!" and a big hug for me. Those are two of the biggest things I am going to miss when school starts again in the fall.

Miss Janelle and Mr. E

on his birthday this past week



Just a quick walk down memory lane:

-I would often call him Mr. E. for fun and he would always respond with a quick, "I not Mister!" :)

-We went to the Philadelphia Zoo the other week for our field trip and as usual, he wanted to see the snakes. In his opinion, they are the best, simply because he knows his teachers hate them! Haha.

-One day, I was yawning and admitted that Miss Janelle was sleepy.
Mr. E. said, "I drive you home to sleep."
My response: "No, that'd be dangerous. You would crash."
E: "I not crash. I carefully!"
Miss Janelle wasn't so sure. :)

-Another day I was wearing a black headband and took it off when it began to give me a headache. E. grabbed it, put it on his head and said, "You cute!" I tried giving a stern look, but couldn't help but smile.

E was well-loved at school. This was demonstrated by the FULL box of cards, gifts and well-wishes that he took home yesterday. I think he was a little overwhelmed with the love shown by so many students, teachers, and parents. From receiving a diploma and having a special song sung in his honor at our all-school program to a school-wide treat of donuts and chocolate milk, his final day was a memorable one for sure.

We did have some challenging days with Mr. E at times, but he was an enjoyable student to teach. I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to teach him for three years. His vacancy will leave a hole in our classroom and in our hearts, but we have hopes that he will visit us on occasion next year!

My prayer for Mr. E comes from Numbers 6:24-26:

"The Lord bless you
    and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace.”