Editor’s Note: For those who might be new to this blog, and/or just forgot, “Steve” refers to a stroke that I experienced about 3 years ago.

Today as I was cleaning out my classroom, I was pondering the year. I felt off most of the year. I’m thinking that this was due to our new fall break. While I certainly appreciated the pause, it really threw off my timing. Other than that, all went well. There were some teachable moments, the usual chuckleheads, and believe some actual learning.

When I arrived in the classroom I saw this:

“Aww, that’s sweet…wait…’lil’?!” #IFYKYK

Honestly, this year was a bit challenging compared to last, especially last year’s Juniors, which of course are the Seniors that graduated last Thursday. One on one they were great I really enjoyed them individually. But as a class <insert eyeroll Emoji here>. (Should learn short cut for that.) (Or not, it’s kinda fun to type it out.)

Often last year the lesson lacked personality. Yes, I was having trouble delivering the lessons due to Steve butting in often, but even when I sidelined him I was treated to radio silence. The song ‘Teen Angst (What the World Needs Now), by Cracker came played in my head.

“I don’t know what the world may need
But a V-8 engine’s a good start for me
I think I’ll drive and find a place to be surly”

“Mr. Woodward?”

“Yes.”

“What’s surly.”

As I said, despite their demeanor in class we finished last year I received hugs from some of the surliest kids. Throughout the year this year we high fived, fist-bumped, and even bunny-booped. #IFYKYK

Why do we not appreciate the contributions of others in the moment? What is it about endings that triggers the impulse to reflect? Would our day’s be better if we paused to reflect more often? I don’t know the answers but appreciate the acknowledgement.

Here appear some of the selections to add to my “Box-O-Appreciations” from this year:

Thank you for the memories.

I have several other photos behind the whiteboard that students ask about. Oh, and here is the “Box-O-Appreciations”:

It includes three journals, countless cards and several posters.

Over the years a theme appears, “Thank you for letting us be ourselves.”

<awww Emoji>

(Scroll down for June 1, 2022 for the original Appreciations)