Dream Team

Every time I think of you I thank God for you. I have joy in my heart every time I ask God to help you.
Philippians 1:3-4

The girls pictured above have seen me at my best and at my worst.  I had the privilege of teaching along side these amazing women for 3 years. We have stormed into each others classroom venting about one thing or another, celebrated big and small victories, raced to Sonic during conference period for half-priced limeades, and poured our lives into creating a teaching environment that would inspire creativity, leadership, and academic excellence.  We served under a dynamic and selfless leader, Mr. Tony Vessakosal.  A few Sundays ago we all jumped on a video call and chatted for the first time in a year.  Two continue to teach at Eisenhower, 1 moved to Lubbock, and 2 of us to a different state.  Yet, as we dove into conversation it was as though we just spent the last week teaching across the hall from each other.  There is not a doubt in my mind that God placed these women in my life for a purpose.  They are undoubtably life-long friends. 

​Today in our staff meeting at Graffiti 2, we were encouraged to reflect on times that God has shown up big in our lives. It's been 3 years since I was diagnosed and I feel like I am just now beginning to sort through thoughts and feelings regarding that time.  I had cancer.  I HAD CANCER. So often we are left in awe of His works, but then life happens and we forget when faced with the next obstacle. He gave me this team for the time I most needed them.  These ladies were at my school when I was decorating my classroom for "Meet the Teacher Night" the day I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  They sent me home to my family and covered my room that night and many more days as I started and completed treatment.  They checked on me on evenings I was so tired that I had to stop driving, pull over and take a nap half way home.  They covered for me in meetings when I had to crash in the nurse's office because I couldn't make it through the day.  I am so grateful for my team and how they cared for me.  I am even more grateful for how they reminded me of my Father's provision.  

Now, I will be the first to that this team was the best team in the world and none can compare.  However, I truly believe there are many that come close! In fact, there is a good chance that you know of an amazing teacher.  I would encourage you to find a teacher to bless. If you have children in school, shower their teachers with support.  If you do not have children in school, look around, teachers are everywhere! They work long hours then pack up enough bags to make it look as if they were going on vacation and continue the work at home.  Weekends are spent planning and finding ways to make their lessons come alive.  I was blessed with thoughtful class parents that brought food when they knew I was working late, flowers just because, and most importantly, gave of their time.  Check out the list and links below for ideas on how you can show some love! 

1. Creative and thoughtful gifts 

http://www.justaddconfetti.com/free-printable/thanks-a-latte-teacher-appreciation-gift-idea-with-free-printable/

http://lisastorms.typepad.com/lisa-storms/2011/05/teacher-appreciation-week-part-3.html

2.  Send an encouraging note
If your student has a homework calendar or daily planner checked by his or her teacher, jot an encouraging line in the notes section, stop by and leave a sticky note on the door before school, mail a homemade card to the school. Teachers never get fun mail at school! 

http://www.ibelieve.com/relationships/words-of-encouragement-for-teachers.html

3.  Spend some time in the classroom
​Ask the teacher how you can be helpful and be ready for anything! If you cannot spend a day at school, ask if there is anything you can do at home.  I had a wonderful room mom that offered to cut out reading center activities.  Her daughter would take a zip lock baggie with laminated center pieces and they would cut out at home together and save me so much time! 

http://www.parents.com/parenting/money/volunteer/school-volunteering-ideas/

4.  Take an active role in your child's education
Visit the website above to Log In & Learn more.  The Texas Education Agency has developed this website to provide a tool for parents to access important information and empower parents to help their student be successful.  This website will give important information found on the STAAR Report Card.  In addition, TEA provides resources to address specific needs according to STAAR results. 

https://www.texasassessment.com/

5.  Pray for your teacher and students

http://www.gatherandgrow.co/a-back-to-school-prayer-for-teachers-and-students/?utm_source=GraceforMoms.com&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ca771c0252-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_term=0_523e29e4d7-ca771c0252-323228949