OK, so today was a little rough…but it's nothing a few Kleenexes couldn't fix and I’ll never forget it. I
knew that the administration had planned something a little different for those
of us who were leaving the school this year, but this wasn't a thought that
came to mind.
The entire school gathered in the gym today after lunch. We
had a 1:45 dismissal, so we as a staff were all looking forward to having the
kids dismissed from the gym and not having to hold them under lock and key in
our own classrooms!
The kids were starting to settle, the staff and students
took their seats. Our principal and vice principal took the lead and thanked
God for our students and teachers, and to keep them safe over the summer
months. The music started. We were told that a special song was going to play…and
my apologies I can’t remember what it was! If any colleagues are reading this,
please comment as to what it was. Our principal announced that he was going to
ask those who were leaving to come up to the front. The first of us got up. She
went to shake the hands of our principal. Rather than a handshake, it was a
dance…
I was second, or at least, I think I was. The emotions got
the better of me. I was trying to make everything go into long term memory.
Thank goodness someone reminded me to get a Kleenex before this all started. “Mrs.
Schmitz!” was announced. My students hooted and hollered…the one time I was
happy to have the LOUDEST class in the school J
I started to make my way to the front. My principal took the lead and we shared
a waltz full of thanks and inspirational messages and gratitude. I was whisked
away to my vice principal who welcomed me with open arms and pride. I almost
made it with only watery eyes. I waved to the student audience and made my way
to the side where a colleague was red faced and tears in full force. I had to
join in and lost it. We looked on to others who were leaving as they got their
special waltz too. Some have been with us a shorter time than others, but all
extremely valuable to the students, ourselves and the school.
A few of the older students were shocked…I was blessed to
have some of them come back after a few years to give me a hug, shed a tear and
wish them and myself good luck. Many of them going on to high school this year…
they have their whole life ahead of them; and for the first time in a long time…so
do I.
We clapped for the grade 8’s, 7’s, 6’s and so on…so proud to
be part of this school culture! Outside, more tears from students as they
hugged their best friends, proud parents in their cars waiting for their kids,
and teachers swelled with relief and excitement. I've had beautiful comments
and cards of encouragement from students, staff, and friends. It’s funny what
sticks out at the end of the day. After one of the many hugs, I looked up and
saw a mom on the other side of the fence. I had never had either of her
children, but my husband and other colleagues had. She looked at me and said, “You
never had one of mine, but I've heard great things, and I know that they’re
losing a good one here….” How many tears do you have to shed to dry your eyes?
I can’t wait to go…but I can’t wait to be back either. I
hope that somehow, God has the grace to give me the opportunity to see two
students I wasn't able to see today. Both were special students of mine, and
for reasons beyond their control, they weren't able to see their friends the
last day of school. God, keep them safe.
So, that’s my ‘goodbye’ story from my school, but I know it’s
really a “see you later”. I am sure our paths are meant to cross again later on
down the line… During the next month and a bit I will be having other goodbyes.
Some I’m ready for, others I am simply not. They say it takes a village to
raise a child. My village has been huge for this little girl and it’s about to
become worldwide as there is going to be more raising of me out there in Abu
Dhabi. If you’re reading this, thank you, for you are part of my village and
integral to my world. I couldn't be more blessed or thankful <3
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