This whole winter has been some kind of weird and cruel trick.
In January, we survived the Polar Vortex, were whiplashed into a delightful thaw (thanks to glorious sunshine and warmish days). More recently, we’ve endured freezing rain, an absurd amount of ice, and unforgiving bands of lake effect snow.
Two weeks ago, frigid winds whipped across our region at a ridiculous 60 miles per hour.
As I write this very note, the wind continues to howl, the thermometer reads 10 degrees, and IT IS STILL SNOWING. Lord have mercy.
The winter wind keeps doing its thing, and I’m struck by its most unique sound. It’s sort of ghostly and unsettling. It makes me want to tuck in and stay safe inside.
Just as we retreat to the safety of our warm homes when the wind whips and the snow falls outside, many of our students find shelter within the classroom walls — where expectations are clear, the community is safe, and they are held accountable to high social and academic standards. You may have a few kiddos come to mind as you ponder this idea, and your heart may break as you consider their lives outside of school. In general, we know that many kids spend time alone hidden behind a screen, isolated from actual people, taking in social media and all sorts of content. Some live in and among emotional pain. Some fend for themselves all evening long. And, even though they may not realize or admit it, most are craving what only adult mentors, teachers, and parents can provide.
Who needs the safety of your classroom? Hold that big or little human dear to your heart and remember how much they need you. Build and foster that relationship. Find ways to show how much you care.
Soon (hopefully), winter will come to an end. We’ll forget the days we were cooped up inside listening to the wind and snow whip against the windows. But for many kiddos, winter will rage on. They will retreat to school and feel safe inside, comforted by your care and challenged by your expectations. Your work matters to that kid, and man-oh-man, it is work worth doing.