When I went to wake Kirra with kisses, she was a little sleepy but was excited to start Grade 4. Always with a positive attitude, she knew this was going to be a great year; looking forward to having two teachers - Mrs. Anger and Mrs. Acker who job share. Although not all of her friends are in her class and she was sad to not be with them, she does still have a number of friends in her class.
Junior High is a new ball game. When I think back to my days of Junior High, I remember them fondly for the friends that I had and that I really became more confident as I discovered my capabilities. I joined Student Council and developed leadership skills. However, I remember the first day of Junior High. I remember how heavy all the school supplies were that seemed to weigh me down. I remember all of us going into the gym and having to search the class lists to find out who our homeroom teacher would be. It was overwhelming but as I learned the routines, I became accustomed to the new normal I would face. It was much the same for Jaret. He was overwhelmed by the end of his first day. He was excited for a couple of his friends to be in his class but found the change of not being with others disappointing. A life lesson for both kids, learning that there will be disappointments in life but how we deal with those disappointments speaks to character.
Another challenge that overwhelmed Jaret was moving from class to class and having a different teacher for every subject. He was concerned about how he would be able to carry all his binders and supplies with him. And I think his emotions got the better of him at the end of the day mostly because he was exhausted and finds change a little hard. And don't most of us? After talking some things through and doing some organizing of his locker, he had a much better second day so I can tell he is already settling in. Having Drone Robotics as an options class today and deciding to learn the basics of tech/sound for his service hours, also helped get him excited about what he has to look forward to, now that he is in Grade 7.
Kirra loved just about everything that Grade 4 had to offer. She told me all about things she learned, particularly Saving Sammy. An activity where she worked with a partner to help the save the gummy worm who was on a sinking boat. The object was to get "Sammy" the gummy worm through the lifesaver (aka - life jacket). But they couldn't use their hands, they had to use paper clips. Hands on and fun learning. She didn't tell me if in the end she got to eat Sammy or his life jacket.
I am so grateful for the school and the staff. My kids are truly blessed to be able to be part of this community. We are all looking forward to the year ahead. I love the fresh start that a new school year brings!
Kirra with Grizz!
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