It’s the most wonderful time of the year

The holiday season is all about joy, and nothing brings me more joy than my students. It’s the small moments that mean so much to me and remind me of why I serve! As we head into the winter holiday break (which is my favorite time of the year by the way), it is important to me to stay uplifted. Thinking about the smiles on the faces of my students is one thing that makes me smile myself. I would like to share a few moments that have occurred recently with students at Trevitt Elementary that have brought me much joy!

While discussing trust in one of my behavior interventions, a student told me that she trusts me. In the moment, I thanked her and kept on with the lesson, but that moment meant a lot to me. This is a student who does not trust many adults or many of her peers, so it was a big deal for her to share that. This student and I have been working to develop a great relationship. She can be difficult at times, but I know that she is kindhearted and has great leadership potential!

Another joyous moment was at the end of one of my first interventions. A student wrote on the white board “You are the best City Year ever!” That really made me happy and it put me at ease, as it was one of my first interventions.

Another great experience I had with a group of students was during lunch time. While eating lunch with a few of the fourth grade girls, they started to ask me what I’d like for a Christmas gift. I told them that was nice, but they did not have to get me anything. They then went on to discuss how nice I was and how they appreciate that I would do anything for them. One student even said “You’re too nice Ms. Courtney!” It made me laugh, but it also made me feel great inside, knowing that my students think so highly of me!

As we head into the last week of school before winter break, I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to serve with City Year. The organization as a whole is wonderful, but I am especially appreciative of the relationships that I am building with my students. I learn from them probably as much as they learn from me. They bring me so much joy, which I will miss over the break. I truly can’t wait to get back in January to continue to #makebetterhappen!