The Nicest Note...

The Nicest Note...

Last night, in AJ's school folder we received the following note from his 1st Grade Teacher:
_____________________________________________
May 2008
I firmly believe being a parent is the hardest job of all! I want you to know that I think you're doing a wonderful job with A.J. All the love and energy you are putting into raising him is paying off beautifully. He's lucky to have you both. Kate Twomey
_____________________________________________

She is the kind of teacher who cares for her students sooooo much and they respond by learning and trying hard. AJ has really blossomed in her class. AJ was being a little lazy about his reading early in the school year. When we went in for the first parent-teacher conference, she talked to Gideon and I about how she felt that AJ had the skills to read very well but that he wasn't living up to his potential. He was still very much on grade level, but she thought he could do better and was going to have him get extra reading support. We agreed and worked with him at home too. We noticed that as soon as all of the adults were supporting him with progress reports to each other, AJ's skills and "stamina" for reading for longer and longer periods of time increased. He had been coming home with 100% on math and spelling tests all the time, this continued, and his reading really took off. We don't have to fight with him to do his homework; he enjoys doing it. Kate Twomey is the kind of teacher who does more than address the bad or areas of concern. She sends home praise for AJ as well as any concerns. She calls to check-in, and each conversation with her is a joy. She is so positive and supportive. When I sent in a note to let her know I was having surgery and that AJ might be concerned on the days I was in the hospital and that his grandparents would be picking him up, she sent back a wonderfully encouraging note and we had a wonderful conversation. We feel that Gid, AJ and I are all very lucky to have each other, and I think we and all of Kate's students are lucky to have her. The school year is almost over, but Mrs. Twomey will be a part of our lives for a long time to come I still remember my 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Magnison, and all she did for me. Teachers are always with us in our brains and hearts, particularly those who start off our formal education and show us the joy of reading and learning. Thanks Mrs. Twomey & Mrs. Magnison...