Friends,
Spring break seemed like the perfect time to post an uplifting message to the blog. It marks the time in the school calendar when we can reflect on just how much we’ve accomplished and still look forward to the milestones that still await us.
As a senior in college, I spent the summer working with UrbanPromiseCharlotte. My summer at UrbanPromise strengthened my call and commitment to teach. My days were filled with the delight of helping elementary school students learn to read, be creative with crafts, be active with a soccer ball and be in awe at how much the LORD loved them. Each day of summer camp programming promised to be something special for students and staff. Students especially loved Field Trip Friday--- An extra dose of fun with camp friends away from camp. Students were always excited for the day we headed to the swimming pool.
In our pre camp meeting the morning we were scheduled to head to the swimming pool our fearless and faithful leader confessed that our trip to the pool could easily be counted as one of the most stressful two hours of his job. We had to be extremely diligent about watching students around the water. Families trusted us with their children each day. It’s safe to say, that when the school bus turned the corner back into the UrbanPromise parking lot staff could breathe a sigh of relief. Everyone was safe and kids cherished the memories they made at UrbanPromise. It’s a win win situation.
Sometimes, teaching can feel like a day at the swimming pool. As teachers we always consider how to make lessons more creative , or if we communicated the right amount of encouragement to our school community. In the midst of pandemic teaching, I worry when students are out it’s something more serious than a dentist appointment or the common cold. I consider If I washed my hands enough or maybe, I haven’t listened well enough to students who tell me they miss lunch with friends in the cafeteria? It seems that there’s always something to wonder about. It’s easy to feel like I'm keeping my head above water and praying that I’m living out the promise well enough.
As we reach the homestretch of the year stay excited for the ways that you and your students will continue to learn together. Celebrate and cherish what teaching really means to you. Help fellow teachers see their value. Remember that even in days that are ordinary there is a special sense of joy!
Joyfully,
Teacher Julie
Ps. Please pray for UrbanPromise students in Charlotte ( and beyond ) Hopefully they’ll be able to create FUN summer memories!
