A New Year as a Panther

I actually teared up today as I left the kids at school. I know this is a common occurrence for some, but it usually doesn't happen with me. I believe parents and children alike need SPACE from each other, it's healthy for all relationships. AND I am confident that my children are in excellent hands at Plano so my worries are small. BUT today for some reason I just got emotional on the ride home. I think one of the main reasons is because Matt wasn't there for the first time to see the kids off. I'm happy for his new chapter of teaching at South Warren but sad for the moments he'll miss, like this.

The rumor mill swirls at Plano (and every other school, I'm sure) especially in the summer. I heard some teachers were let go, I heard some teachers were moved or shifted around to other positions, I heard there were going to be split classes, this and that, that and this. I was nervous about this school year. My kids academic success is a priority for me--I want them to succeed and do well. I want them in the right class with the right teacher and in the right school. My prayers this summer became more specific than usual on the school-front. Open House was on Sunday. It's a chance to meet and greet your new teacher, fill out enough paperwork to require a hand transplant, see who's in your class and make a mad dash to Staple's for all your school supplies. I am happy to report that our prayers were answered.

Karson is exactly where she needs to be--with her teacher from last year. Her name was Ms. Pridemore last year, but she married over the summer is now Ms. Tinsley. Ms. T knows Karson (strengths and weaknesses and every in between). She told us that the teachers received an edited list on Saturday, and she said I was SO hoping that Karson would stay in my class. She also sent me the kindest email after the first day of school say, "I know you know this, but Karson is so special! She's by far the most well-mannered well- behaved child I've ever had. She kept me going on this rough first day of school. " I told her that this is the compliment every parent wants to hear about their child, and that it's my hope that her brothers follow in her footsteps.
Isaac wanted NO PART of taking a picture with his new teacher Ms. Vincent at Open House. I finally convinced him to get one shot with her, look how he's stretching as far away as possible. I know he loves her because he told us everyone who has her loves her. His heart still belongs with Ms. Rather, but I feel like Ms. Vincent will quickly become a replacement. She's been wonderful so far. I felt like I needed to email her and tell her about Isaac finicky eating habits. For some reason, lunch causes him anxiety or it did last year. Here was her response (which was quick--love that), "Thank you for this email. I ate at Isaac's table during lunch just minutes ago. I noticed that he wasn't eating the hamburger buns and asked him if he didn't like bread. He told me that he was a picky eater. He seemed perfectly fine telling me that and then going right along with eating what he wanted. I'm glad he didn't stress. I'm happy to have Isaac in my class and thank you for the kind words! We are having such a wonderful day!" Love this year and love our teachers!

First day of school photo session out front. I always get the kids 1st Day outfits from my neighbor Jenny. She owns an adorable little boutique called The Polka Dot Door. At the end of the summer, she has 50% sale which is about the only way I can buy clothes =).

There were some new murals in the school and in the gym. I love the Panther eyes that welcome you into the primary hallway.

Hard at work in their classes. Miles will start preschool next week. He was terribly upset that he didn't get to go to school this week. He and Ms. Teresa are looking forward to a fun year at EEP.