So as the spring winds tear apart the neighbours’ shingles and test our hedge, I’m r fleeting on how the winds of change are everywhere right now.

My students feel it. The grade 8s are looking ahead to high school. They are frustrated with their less focused peers and eager to move on. A few are nervous too, and that manifests in grade fluctuations and ‘off’ days.

The grade 7s are feeling the pressure too – feeling the weight of grade eight and high school pressing down on them. It shows in the little things – skipping extra help sessions, snarky comments, and tearful moments when the frustration peaks.

But I see other changes. The doors that are held for others. The ‘thank yous’ exchanges between peers. The admission of ‘I need help with this one…’ and the willingness to ask a peer for support.

The changes are small, but they demonstrate growth. My school-kids are growing. They are moving towards independence in their own baby steps, and every day – everyone of them — makes gains.

So I pledge here – for my readers (all six?) to see – that I will not forget to celebrate the growth and affirm the kids who need me right now, even as the end of year rush engulfs me. I will keep working for my kids, just as they keep working for me.

The winds of change will ruffle my skirt, but they won’t blow me over.

My kids will keep me strong.

MPJ