If you read this blog regularly or visit BraveTeachers.com, then you probably know I'm way into offering all sorts of little encouragement to other teachers. This year I decided to actually make it tangible for some of the teachers with whom I work. And we had conferences the last couple days--on Thursday evening after teaching and on Friday morning instead of teaching.
If you're a teacher you know it's just stressful. It just is. So. . .
I decided to make little bitty gratitude bags! They were sort of like goody bags, but without much loot. It was the thought that had to count! I sent them to all 3 elementary schools in my district--about 75 bags. My husband and son were couriers of kindness to the other buildings. Each one had a little note that said, "Thank you for the amazing work you do!" (Words I think teachers should hear every day of their life, but often don't hear for weeks or months or even years.)
The bags also contained 2 little nuggets with a word (like brave or hope or faith or joy) or a heart drawn on them, an enchanted affirmation, 2 pieces of dark chocolate, 2 mint lifesavers, a Tazo Passion teabag, 2 little bits of steamer, and some metallic star confetti. It was just fun!
The verdict is still out on whether teachers felt appreciated and valued, but I sure had fun! I'm already starting to think about my next secret mission. What will it be . . .
Have you ever gone on a secret mission?
You absolutely move me to tears! You are the most inspiring extrodinary woman I know! I think of doing these things but never am brave enough to do them. I am curious how the teachers responded. Did they respond? Did they know you did it or was it anonymous? I know you didn't do it for the thanks or notoriety But am curious the reaction it envied.
ReplyDeleteInvoked not envied...clearly I am envious of your braveness (damn auto correct)
ReplyDeleteAlmost no response. I find that so interesting and telling. I think most of the teachers I know have tall thick walls of protection up. I don't think what I do crashes down walls, but it offers courage for people who want to move their own bricks!
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