Squeezed In The Middle

The title of this post is metaphorical and literal.

Literal because this is the middle of the year. WoW! Thinking ahead March is almost half way over, then April is cluttered with Camp City Year and Passover, May brings Memorial Day Weekend, and then June 10th and that's all folks.

It's been a really big year. We've accomplished a lot at Ferebee Hope and I'm sad to think about leaving. I've seen students come a long way. Today my Starfish student (Think of the one person you know you made a difference to) wrote all her words in one line, identified letters by herself, and completed her work. I was proud to see her accomplish so much. She's moving in small but effective strides to having her work up on the bulletin board. A big feat for the first grade achievement book. I've seen student behavior significantly improve (and not improve). I owe a student a total of 7 chocolate bars for the number of weeks he only had one fit. (Can't wait for my food stamps to kick in again so I can keep up my end of the bargain)

Of course we still have the typical antics. Riots on the 4th floor, students running off school property, students hitting and kicking (US) but all in all I think our voice was heard.

I'm really happy with the success of our Diversity Dinner for Starfish After School Programming. We really pulled together for an exciting and cultural event. Next up is Spring Spirit Week and Red Carpet Affair. Both should be fantastic in Ferebee Hope style.

Now as to why this title is metaphorical. I'm in the middle of as my kids say "doin too much" and struggling with not doing enough. The middle of the year is when many people start to get fed up with City Year. I think I'm doing enough work but I think there's also still a lot of learning for us all before this year is over. Baby steps seem effective. which brings me back to how quickly this year is ending and how little time I have left. It's all too fast. But good. See... the middle.

I'm excited for what they rest of the year will bring and expecting great things from UConn in the fall.

Yours From The Middle.
Goodnight