There's a Beautiful Magic That Sometimes Happens When All the Stars Align and Our Systems Get Out of the Way to Make Great Work Occur

I switched to creating a community partnership with Franklin School, K-6, in Stratford, Connecticut, simply to work with an ol' student, who I've watched excel as a classroom instructor, assistant administrator, and now principal. She had a vision for literacy and I was like, "I am so there." Yesterday, my 20 students worked with 1st and 3rd graders once again, and to witness the brilliance of connecting college students with elementary-aged kids is simply touching. Better year are the comments from teachers who say, "This is a dream. In such a short time we accomplish so much, and it allows me to work with kids I need to be one on one with." 

Then, walking in the hallways, I hear from the teachers in grades we're not collaborating with calling, "Foul! No Fair. Why not us?". I get it. Having extra hands to accomplish reading and writing goals is a dream for any classroom teacher. With numbers, more can be accomplished. And the joy of kids, teachers, my students, and administrators is simply contagious. I wish I could bottle it up and sell it (at a reasonable price, of course). 

I had the opportunity to work with several young people who struggled in school because of dis/abilities, autism, socio-emotional issues, and the other obstacles our kids arrive with. It's always amazing to me, however, how much can be accomplished when there is space for one-on-one instruction. All of our schools could benefit from dedicated individuals lending a hand. 

One young man, who was non-verbal and had many self-stimulating gestures of whooping and shaking his hands, was one of the most accomplished artists I've ever seen in a young person. His ability to draw anything realistically was simply awe-inspiring. He was only in 3rd grade, too. This is simply his away of communicating. 

I do with everyone could have an opportunity to get into schools and work with the next generation of possibilities. It is something. And I have nothing but praises to sing about the Franklin faculty and staff. They are definitely in it to win it. More importantly, they're there to love the young people they teach and to find joy in each and every moment. 

It's a great way to think positively as I head into the weekend.