My Home Away From Home
19 years ago at 22 years old, I accepted my very first job as a 4th grade teacher at Ravinia school in Highland Park. I had dreamed of being a teacher from the time I was 5 years old. My passion for working with children only grew with age. I knew the important role a teacher could play in a child’s life. I didn’t just want to teach, I wanted to support the social emotional health of all children. I wanted to provide my students with the tools and skills to handle all life’s challenges. Teaching them the academics wasn’t my concern. I knew I could do that if I could create a safe space for each of them to be who they needed to be. Teaching each and every 9 and 10 year old to love themselves for who they are, to treat others with kindness and compassion, to navigate difficult interactions, and to just show up each day, was my mission.
Today, I look back on all of my classes, all of my students, their families, and their friends. I want to reach out to all them! I want to make sure each one of them is OK. (Yes, I remember all of you!) I want to know they are all safe. I want to find a way to comfort, support, and provide a space for them to be who they need to be.
Any student who had me as their teacher, know about community building. They know the important role that played in our classroom and aiding to build a safe, trusting space for each and everyone to come each day. They also know that once my student, always my student. A message I always shared was that I will forever be in your life, if you so choose for me to be. That message still stands today.
In the aftermath of this July 4th in Highland Park, I realize that we cannot prepare our children for ALL of life’s challenges. The safe spaces for our students aren’t safe spaces anymore. What I do know is that teachers can still provide comfort, a sense of safety, and a nurturing voice even to those who have graduated and moved on.
While I have never lived in Highland Park, I have probably spent more hours in HP in the last 19 years than I have where I live. My home away from home is hurting. My home away from home will not be the same for a long time. My home away from needs support, love, and people who are ready and willing to stand up for change. Our voices matter. We can make a difference. YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
To all my former students, and families who are reading this, reach out! I would love to hear from you. I am HERE for YOU!
With all my hugs, handshakes and high fives!
Ms. Purse
Would you believe I knew this was you writing before I even read your name? I think I was your first class in 2003-2004. I remember all my Ravinia teachers with such clarity and fondness! I felt safe and secure every day at Ravinia, and it is profoundly sad to think that is no longer the case. But of course—we must work to make it so. Thank you for your words of support and for being a very favorite teacher of mine.
ReplyDeleteSabrina, you certainly were my very first class! I told you all I’d never forget. You would always hold a special place in my heart. I even remember those very curly pigtail braids of yours! You were destined for great things. I am so glad you have fond memories of your time at Ravinia. I hope our younger students can regain that feeling of safety in our schools, and really, any public space. I hope all your family is doing well. Say hello to Jacob for me!
DeleteMs. Purse!! I miss you and reading this brought me such comfort for you had shaped so much of my time at ravinia!! It made me so happy to see your name
ReplyDeleteOh Emma! I read your post and was so relieved you did not make it to the parade on your run. I am glad you write as an outlet. I still remember you and your sisters. You and to tell Lily and Eden as well as your parents I say hello. I miss all of you! I hope you are doing well. Sending hugs. If any of you need anything, I’m here. Even if it is to meet for coffee!
ReplyDeleteI would love to anytime!! We all miss you ❤️
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