As I was driving home from work yesterday, I saw the mother of one of 'my' kids from last year. Her daughter is in middle school this year, so no longer with us. I stopped and offered her a ride home. She was so happy that I had, she said her boots were killing her. I was able to find out how her daughter is doing (fine, getting straight A's) and pass along a hello to her, too.
I've worked at the same school for three years. This means that I've spent quite a bit of time with some of 'my' kids. Watched them get a little bigger and grow and change. This year, for the first time, I've really thought about the fact that I will probably never see most of them again... probably triggered by seeing that mom yesterday.
Our program is full for the fall already. 30 kids per day, M-F. We didn't even send out backpack flyers to the general school population. The only kids who won't be back in the fall are the 5th graders who will be attending middle school next year and a boy who's moving away. With no modesty whatsoever, I tell you, we are good at what we do. We like the kids and it shows. The parents love us.
Last year we had a little guy who was a 'guest' of the foster care system. He was engaging, smart, handsome and really a neat little boy. I was so sad when the year was over because I knew I wouldn't know how the story ended for him. Now I've realized they all have a story and I don't get to know the rest of it!
I will have to ask Sunshine, the site director, how she handles it. I am finding it hard.
I think that would be hard too. I used to be a camp counsellor at GS camp and I did it with the (we used to call it the handicap session I get confused on which is the PC way to say it now). I also worked at a Juvenile group home. I wonder about those "kids" too and how they turned out.
ReplyDeleteHope you find your best way to deal with it.
I know it can be hard, but think of it this way.... At least you know you have made a positive impact on someone.
ReplyDeleteCheer up girly!
kitten