blogger mom

I don't think it's a big secret that living in Franklinton, specifically raising children in Franklinton, has been a big challenge for me lately. At the same time I feel like we were led to an incredible school for our children that helps make living here so much easier. No, my children don't go to school in this neighborhood and there are times I've gotten negative responses over the fact that I remove my kids for schooling. By the way, none of these people have ever raised an eight year old boy in the ghetto. This will be Riley's third year at Westgate Alternative and Trey will start kindergarten there this week. We have had such a wonderful experience at Westgate. I've made good friends, the boys have made good friends, and the staff is excellent. I could keep going, but for now I'm just going to focus on Ms. Steffes.

Ms. Steffes was Riley's first grade teacher. I spent a lot of time in the classroom tutoring the kids and to say that she impressed me each week would be a huge understatement. She loves teaching and she loves her students. My boys have basically gained an extra grandmother. Riley learned so much last year and simply thrived in her classroom. Then in May we received wonderful news. Mrs. Steffes would be moving to second grade next year and taking her entire classroom with her. Now, I know that the universe if much larger than my little family...but, I truly believe that God was at work in that decision. This school year promises to be full of transition for our family. My boys are going to have so many changes at home and things are going to seems very chaotic for them at times. Riley is my current child of concern, it rotates. Right now he's the one I worry about the most. In the midst of all of this there will be Ms. Steffes...constant, calm, patient, and ready to love on Riley in class. Last night Eric and I were at her home because she had some things she wanted to give our boys that used to belong to her son. We stayed and talked for awhile and it was so fun to hear her talk about all the things she's excited about for this school year. She also told me to bring Evan along this year when I tutor. I'm not sure she knows what she's saying! Pickle will think he runs the classroom in no time!

My middle son starts kindergarten on Friday. I could cry thinking about it. Trey is very ready for kindergarten in so many ways, but it's still so hard thinking about not being there when he needs me. I'm not there to give the encouragement and hug when someone hurts his feelings. It will be hard, just like it was with Riley, but we will adjust. We are very happy with the teacher he has this year and his two buddies will be in class with him. His classroom is right across the hall from Riley's, so I know Riley can check up on him! I want to be in his classroom tutoring this year as well. I don't know how long I'll be able to work in either classroom this year because we're not sure when things are going to turn upside down around here.