It has been about five months since we opened ILC’s doors. We welcomed
Some students were very easy to get to know, and welcomed others to get to know them. Other students were reserved and shy making it difficult for teachers and peers in. But as the semester goes on, it has been rewarding in seeing these student flourish and participate in class with their teachers and peers.
Miss Anna, the Read room teacher for Grades 1-5, shares her exciting story of one boy in her room that opened up:
He has come to let me work with him during independent reading time and in the last week has raised his hand every time I ask a question, and I should add he always has the right answer. But, with that said, when it comes to sharing something that he has written or drawn he is very cautious, protective and unwilling to share. It’s almost like he just hasn’t wanted to be exposed in that manner. His work is different to him than just answering a question verbally.
Although I always give him the opportunity, not a single time this year has he been willing to share, until Monday, that is. I asked the others to share first and then asked him if he would like to share. He hesitated, and I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting him to answer. But then he picked up his paper off the floor, and very, very nervously and hesitantly began to read what he had written. I wanted to jump out of my chair and hug him like crazy because I was so proud of him for being so brave.
This may not seem like such a big deal, but it is just huge to me. For the first time this boy felt safe enough to allow himself to be exposed and vulnerable to those around him. I should add that what he shared was simple, but precise and different from what the others had shared. It was a moment that may have made my whole spring.
