A Strong Handshake & A Thank-You

This morning in our morning meeting, I explained to my students that I have a job interview in a few days. I explained the importance of professional behavior when I walk into the interview. I shared how my professional behavior in an interview will show the hiring personnel that they could trust me with my own group of students. I proceeded to explain the importance of a handshake. It was well received. The students  really seemed to understand how the way that they act shows me that they can be trusted, just like I show that I can be trusted with a classroom of children by how I act in a job interview. After trying to convince me to teach them in third grade next year, we went around the circle and shook our neighbor's hand as well as saying a good morning. It was a great start to a wonderful day.

Later in the morning we practiced writing thank-you notes. Second graders love to write thank-you notes especially because they truly love to make their friends, parents and teachers feel good. They know that a thank-you note just does the trick. I received three thank-you notes. I get a little bit choked up when I read them because I have just come to love these children so so much!

Dear Miss Hartman,
How are you doing? What will you do over spring break? When I'm sad you make me happy and smile. I love that you are my student teacher. You are very sweet and nice. I will be sad when you leave here. You make me smile everyday. I will remember you forever.
Love.

Dear Miss Hartman,
Thank you for all your help. You help me on the computer and my work. I like it when you help me. It is helpful.
Love.

Dear Miss Hartman,
Your my best friend. Don't leave me. I'll never forget you. Will you forget me? Your what makes 2nd grade fun! It was fun with you!
Love.