Me? A Soccer Coach?

It is still dark here at 6am. I keep intending to get up and run in the morning, but can’t seem to get myself out of bed. It would probably help if I would go to bed earlier - and if I were sleeping better.  No complaining here. I have a comfortable air mattress that reminds my body of the aging that is happening. Once I get out of bed, I involve myself in domestic chores that I would rather ignore such as ironing.

On my mind as soon as I got to school was the apology that needed to happen. I pulled the boy out into the hallway and apologized for putting him on the spot. His face lit up and he explained to me that he was uncomfortable being put on the spot. He also spoke up for one of his friends. They have a very low reading level, which I have no problem finding ways to make it work in the classroom. My concern is that fact that he (and five other students) leave the class at the halfway point to go do a special program to help their reading. This program works for them. I know how I teach. I want my class to work for them, but I am not yet sure how to make that happen when they leave before it is over. I need to find the time to meet with their special ed teacher to find out what they are doing with her and I will focus on the opposite. It is hard for me to watch them go when I think everything I do is important.

We wrote on tables today. I thought my teammate (the EC teacher) was going to pass out. I don’t think they have ever written on tables. They LOVED it!! I want to do more of it as do they. My teammate? She brought me whiteboards for them to share. I know that doesn’t have the same effect for the kids, but I can work with it. I want her to be involved.

My other two classes were successful as well. My head continues to spin trying to figure out ways to get more books into my classroom. I went to the Media Center (new name for library) today. There are more empty shelves than shelves with books on them! I want these kids to know the feel of a book; to constantly have a one in their hands, to have books they will read available to them. I want them to enjoy reading.

I eat lunch with the students every day. Today at lunch I was eating with a group of students who English is their second language. They came from Mexico and Honduras. The boys started talking about soccer. I saw their eyes light up and quickly turn dull when they said they had no coach for the school team. “Will you do it Mrs. (They never use my last name. None of them do. I am working on that.) You wouldn’t have to do anything. We will coach the team.” I am no fool. I told them I didn’t think so. Two hours later I was met in the hall by the volleyball coach and asked if I wanted to coach soccer. A vision of the boys appeared in front of me. (Not to mention the fact that I have been embracing whatever challenge is put in front of me. Being asked twice in a short amount of time was I sign.) Before I knew it, I was saying yes. I should have paid more attention to the rules when my kids were playing.

The people in Benson are wonderful! Not only do I have an awesome group of students, the adults have been welcoming and generous as well. Yesterday I went into school to find a note asking if I needed a table, chairs, end tables, coffee table and bar stools. She and her husband delivered them (and a television) this evening. The furniture is nicer than anything I have ever had. It is beginning to feel like home. Now, to pamper my back a bit and find a bed. (I guess I could stop wearing the heels and see if that will make a difference.)

Patti arrives on Saturday. The Caddy and I will be journeying toward Georgia cruising for a Saab. The swap will be made. I will take her into my arms and bring her home.