Today was the day before break and as a class we were busy trying to finish up about 3,000 projects we needed to finish, read alouds, other literature books, etc. But for whatever reason, today seemed less rushed than the other days, and I think for the first time all year I was able to reflect a little bit on the beautiful class I have been given, their personalities and unique backgrounds and just the constant giving that unfolds around my class. And the thing is, when you are trying to move 25 children in a forward direction throughout the day, sometimes you tend to miss these small moments of gratitude and the multiplication of love that spreads every day. 

Out of my five years of teaching I can honestly say that this is a first of sorts

- This class is the largest class I have ever had

- This class has left me more exhausted than any other class

- This class exhibits excellent behavior everyday

- This class is one of the most humble and giving classes I have ever had

- This class represents our world and the beauty of the cultures within it

- This is the first year I have realized that I cannot do everything by myself

This particular group is so special to me because it is the first year where I have tirelessly relied on all the students in my classroom to always help or teach another student. Essentially, I feel like I have a group of third grade adventurers but also a group of students that would one day make beautiful mentors and teachers. The patience they exhibit on a daily basis is just breathtaking. Many of the students at this point know exactly how to help and when to help. This morning I had a glue stick in my mouth while I was trying to cut someone's Social Studies scrapbook page while simultaneously reviewing subtraction with a student and math facts with another. I looked ridiculous. One of my students came up to me and said, "Mrs. Amoscato I can teach the subtraction while you glue, cut, do multiplication facts and help with the writing of the paragraphs." And you know what I said? "Thank you so very much for being a brilliant teacher. If you could help me, that would be beautiful." 

Every student of mine this year has of course learned the standards and the curriculum. More importantly, they have learned the importance of diversity and tolerance, they have learned how to be a proper mentor to another, they have learned to give constructive feedback and compliments, they have learned the importance of working though a project to completion, they have learned the importance of patience, new languages and how to become a leader in every capacity. Most importantly, they have learned that love is what makes a classroom run the most smoothly. The secret ingredient to life and whimsy of course. A thank you to all of my wonderful students this year and their hearts and lovely souls. Undoubtedly, I have learned more from them than they could ever learn from me.