tribute to teachers

We have officially crossed from one family era to the next with preschool graduation of our youngest.  No more full-time daycare.  All three children in one school, on one schedule (for now...).

I am thrilled to have reached this milestone and, of course, the feeling is bittersweet.  I love the toddler and preschool years and this moment ceremoniously marks the end of that stage.  I will miss it so!  But, I do look on to our next phase with excitement and eager heart.  I truly enjoy watching my children grow in the face of new situations and I know this next phase comes with new learnings, new aches, new joys, new sorrows.  For me, this is welcome!

Thinking through this change, my reflection has turned to the wonderful teachers and caregivers who have blessed our children and their early learning.  I think of the criticism our educational institutions receive.  I think of the governmental influences that make my stomach turn.  But, then I think of Miss A, Mrs. R, Mrs. G, Mrs. S., Grandma S and all the beautiful women and men who have willingly stepped into our lives and given all they could.  They shaped our children's love of learning.  They encouraged their word development and language skills.  They taught our littles to explore and express their emotions.  They listened.  They hugged.  They used every ounce of energy in their bodies and minds to expand and mold the minds and hearts of our children.  

There is not thanks enough for them.  They - each and every one of them - have restored my faith in teachers and in our education system.  They've affirmed my belief that it is the impact of a few loving individuals who make a difference in our lives.

So, I thought it would be fitting to share the many faces of teachers we have come to know.  These are photos from Pie's preschool graduation and I think they express how committed and passionate our teachers are.  This is a tribute to them!

Education is a precious gift.  And I  am thankful we've been gifted with outstanding teachers along our educational journey.  We've taken the time to share this gratitude with them because we know all too well that it will be over sooner than we know...