A Blast From the Past
Posted by Hope Spencer on 02 Dec 2009 | Posted in: Inspiration and Motivation, Teachers and Teaching
Last night I had a real treat. A student I taught over 15 years ago contacted me while I was on my favorite social networking Web site. (Yes, I admit it—I have become addicted to this site! I have made connections with long-lost high school friends, have shared photos of family and friends, and just can’t get enough of my virtual farm and fish tank!) I’m always thrilled when I hear from a student from years ago, but this one was extra special. She was one of several students I had the privilege of teaching for two years as we looped together from second to third grade.
Having the same group of students for a second year was such an interesting experience! These students knew me well, and I knew them well; we were easily able to slip into comfortable roles at the beginning of the year. But the class also included other students; during the summer before third grade, I wondered how the new-to-us students would fit in. When school started, the repeat students and I worked hard to make the other students part of our established community. That class created one of the strongest bonds of any class I taught.
So when this student found me online, I was thrilled. I was eager to hear all about her life and where she has been. Once we caught up, we found that we had lots to talk about. It’s hard for me to believe that this woman was once one of my young students. They do grow up, don’t they?
I’m always amused to hear what students remember from our time together. Funny thing: they don’t always mention a lesson as their first memory! Some students remember a quirky thing I always said; others remember something unusual that happened in the room or on the playground. Most remember other students from the class.
It’s a great feeling to touch base with former students who are all grown up and to hear about the paths they have taken. It reminds me of one of the reasons that I got into teaching in the first place: to help provide the foundation to prepare students for successful lives. Isn’t it an honor to be in that role!
Happy teaching!
Hope
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I have been teaching for 30+ years. I also spend way too much time on a social network. But, over half of my friends are past students. I love to hear from them, and I love to leave them notes about things I remember about them. Just this week, I picked up a book that one of my past students had given me as a gift. I have read this book to my students every year. I shared about this past student, what she is doing, the “Operation Smile” trips she has been a vital member of, and my pride in her accomplishments. I also dropped this friend a note and told her about the experience. I am so proud of so many of my kids.
I’ve only been a teacher for 2 years, and I teach kindergarten, so it will be awhile before my students grow UP. However, once I got a teaching job, I made it a point to reconnect with previous teachers who had influenced me. I think a few of them were surprised to hear from me, but they all appreciated the thanks and were happy to know they had helped me become the teacher I am today.
I, too, love the social networking opportunities. It’s so nice to be able to connect with those who have moved on.