A final goodbye.

[Hilde Garcia]

Change- a constant in the universe.

I wanted to thank you all for the most amazing 7 years at Franklin. Whether I was a parent, our children were friends, or your child's teacher, it was my honor to be in such company.

This year was difficult as I had made the decision to leave last summer, so it was just a question of where. I know I seemed distant, but what I wanted most was to be professional and focused on your kids and only your kids. So I cut out everything outside of the classroom and I kept to myself socially, but it was a terrific school year and I learned so much. And this week, I just couldn't break down, so I tried not to interact too much nor think too much about leaving- but it was kind of impossible. 

Your children learned in leaps and bounds. All reading levels shot through the roof. Every child is on grade level for Spanish and I dare say English. They can write, as evidenced by our National Semi- Finalist for the Cassini Essay Contest. They can spell. They are smart scientists and most of all, they know how to work together.

I meant to show them my report cards. We had joked about what type of student I was. I'd like to send it to them- snap shots- via email.  So if you all don't mind, I will get all your emails, and set up my own little list, since I won't be on this group for much longer and send some fun stuff- you won't believe how I behaved! It's shocking.

Stay tuned for that.

I also wanted to thank you for the unbelievable amounts of cash, gift cards, and presents. I don't know what to say. I know I could say I will send a personal thank you, but with a remodel starting Monday, I will be lucky if I find my shoes.

I will use the cash for supplies in my new classroom, although, by the looks of it, I think I won't need any- just ask my storage unit- it's bursting. I had no idea I had so much stuff at school that used to be at my house!

To my 5th graders: (and 6th graders-)

I am so sorry I won't be there to teach you next year. I know you will teach your teacher how to teach you and how to think outside the box. I know you will soar because we built wings this year. I loved each of you and don't tell the 6th graders- shhh- but you kick their tails, each and every day. BRAVO. A hard thing to do when you are one year younger. Most of the work you did this year was above grade level, so don't let anyone tell you that you are NOT smart. You are. Each and every one of you.  (And that goes for the 6th graders, too, but they are leaving and you are staying, so I figured, you needed the words of encouragement more!)

I know it will seem different. I know the new teacher will be nervous. But be kind. Be SMART. Be helpful. Encourage each other. DO CASSINI again. Email me your drafts and I will read them! I promise I will share all my digital files with the new teacher so that they can pick up where I left off, but I ask you one favor.

Don't compare us. Remember I told you that each teacher throughout your school years is there to teach you something. Some good, some not so good, but all will be valuable in one way or another. Embrace the new. Discover more that you didn't think you could. Smile and smile and when in doubt, smile. And do your best. DON'T do BASURA- 6th graders- pay attention- do your best. It's what people will remember about you that counts.

Your new teacher, with or without faults, will have something to offer you and if you embrace him/her with open arms, they might have a chance to shine. AND I will be so proud of you for doing so.

I adore you- 5th and 6th- so I guess the note was more for all of you, not just 5th

KEEP WATCHING When Calls the Heart. Email me your comments and your "OOO" and "AAAHH" moments as you watch each episode.  READ, READ, and read all summer long. Do work books pages- yes, you have homework. Read the Spanish stories I sent home. Keep those minds sharp- we worked hard, so don't let them get rusty.

I dare you to do something new this summer, read a type of book you wouldn't have thought of reading, try a new food, be kind to your parents, be unstoppable.

Thank you everyone for everything. You are always in my heart. I am just down the road and my door- home or at school- is always open to you.

Love you always,

Maestra Garcia

2109 N. Rose Street

Burbank, CA 91501

(818) 679-2217

hilde...@earthlink.net