Writing and reading are important skills for us all and elementary is the place to learn how to to do this. Not just learn, but love it! Learn to love what writing and reading can bring to your life! I encourage correspondence with students, by having this mailbox on my desk. Sometimes it has a picture, or paper scraps, or a marble like it did today when I checked, but there are times when a student has actually written me a letter. I try to respond as promptly as possible with a message and follow-up questions to keep the interaction going. The days are so busy and classes so full, we often miss the opportunity to get to know the students who might need our attention most. I will never forget DeNeisha, a student that was so quiet, other staff in the building could hardly remember who she was. DeNeisha started writing letters to me in 1st grade and continued through 2nd grade. I really got to know this student and we had a special connection. She still did not talk much and staff still took little notice of her, but she has changed me. She ended up moving out of our school boundary and going to a different school. I still write to her, although I haven't yet this school year. I hope she thinks of her time here and me with fondness. But just in case it slips her mind, I will write to her today.
Reading and writing are a gift! Give someone a present of a note or read them a book today!
Reading and writing are a gift! Give someone a present of a note or read them a book today!