“Teacher Haylie!!!!”
I am almost knocked over by the impact of 15 little bodies as they charge toward me and commence our weekly group hug at the front of the classroom. I say hello to each one of them and they yell back: “hello! hello! hello!” —the only word I can be sure all my second graders know in English.
This is the highlight of my week and my smile gives it away.
I’m called “teacher” here in Spain—yet, we all know I was never formally trained for the profession. Some days here are difficult and I question my purpose. How much am I actually teaching these kids? Am I the best possible person for the job? Is this the best way to go about introducing this topic?
Fortunately, there are always moments like these that give me purpose, provide reassurance, and remind me that I am making an impact…a small impact, but an impact nevertheless.
Well, now my time teaching in Dodro has officially come to an end. And the only feeling I can express is gratefulness. Gratefulness for my fellow teachers and their well wishes in my future endeavors. Gratefulness for the Spanish conversation and companionship Loli (the science teacher) provided every morning as she drove me to school. Gratefulness for the love and warmth my kids showed me in my final days. Gratefulness for their sticky hands, big hugs, and even bigger hearts.
Upon telling my second graders that it would be my last week and consequently our last group hug, they tackled me to the ground—an endearing but scary endeavor considering I almost crushed them on the way down.
My most cherished goodbye will always be the surprise party my sixth graders threw me.
“Teacher, cover your eyes.”
“Guys, I have reading time with high school. Where are we going?”
~Of course I already knew based on their giggles and whispers as we approached the classroom~
“Okay, teacher! Open them!”
“SURPRISEEEEE!”
Balloons covered the floor and loud popping noises ensued as confetti sprung into the air. They began chanting my name as some kids ran forward with homemade cards and gifts. Of course, this was followed with an outpouring of tears and a weird Spanglish speech that attempted to convey my endless gratitude.
These kids made Dodro my home—I place that I can and want to return to. And for that I am eternally grateful.
Abrazo/Hug to all of you readers and my kids in Dodro,
Teacher Haylie
