I never thought it would come to this. Springtime in an elementary school is typically a time of rejuvenation—a period where learning flourishes and routines become second nature. Students begin to line up straight, raise their hands, and listen to one another as they collaborate. They navigate conflicts with dialogue and work towards independence in their studies. Yes, your group can work in the hallway. Yes, you can borrow the iPad for your skit. Yes, three of you can take measuring tapes around the school to tackle a math challenge. Yes, we can create our own Choose Your Own Adventure story. Yes, let’s linger outside a little longer under the sun, surrounded by birds and puddles.
But I never envisioned this moment—a farewell at the cusp of new beginnings. Today, I had only 15 minutes to gather what I could from the classroom for the 2019-2020 school year, cramming it into my cherished secondhand suitcase. That suitcase has journeyed with me through countless adventures and carries the weight of shared memories in its worn exterior. Today, it holds a part of a monumental, historical event. While it signifies new opportunities in online learning, it also brings an indescribable sadness for all the experiences that were left unfulfilled.
I collected my binders, math resources, a wipe-off chart, and essential tools like my markers, stapler, and hole punch. I couldn’t help but feel that I needed that hole punch to truly be a teacher. As I moved from desk to desk, packing away the children’s folders—some adorned with stuffed animals peeking out, headphones hanging, and personal items like sparkly shoes and calculators covered in Sharpie—I felt the weight of what we’d miss.
The fun birthday handshakes we practiced won’t happen this year. The sugar and water experiment we started in January sits abandoned on the windowsill. Our latest read-aloud novel remains untouched, and the bookmarks in chapter books will stay frozen on pages never turned. Our cherished Monday morning circles, filled with laughter and sharing, have come to an abrupt halt. We never got to say goodbye.
Yet, amidst this upheaval, we are all safe at home. I can still connect with my students online, and I’m thankful that the world is equipped with technology during this pandemic. Creating funny videos with colleagues to elicit laughter, even if I can’t hear it in person, has become a source of joy. This challenge of remote teaching is both intriguing and motivating. Together, we will navigate this new landscape of learning during such unprecedented times. It may not be ideal, but it’s the best we can do.
My dear students, we will meet again in this world someday. Stay safe, stay well, and I’ll see you online.
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Conclusion
In summary, while we face a unique and challenging moment in education, the bonds formed and lessons learned will carry us through. We’ll adapt and grow, finding new ways to connect and learn together.
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