I am continuing with my posts on Facebook for Down Syndrome Acceptance Month.
In 2nd grade, again on the recommendation of Mrs. Thomas, we met another wonderful teacher, who would change all of our lives for the better: Lee Ann Faith.
It was love at first sight for my little Joshua. He called her "Miss Fafe," and it was the cutest thing ever. There were still some frustrating days, but SHE was never frustrated with him...or with me. She never pointed out a challenge she was having with Joshua...without pointing out several positive things about him, and how he was doing in her class.
This year was also significant to our family, because it was the year I was pregnant with Clark. When I went to the hospital in pre-term labor with him...and then when he was born 12 1/2 weeks early...it was hard on our whole family, because of the seriousness and uncertainty involved with Clark.
And, as much help as we had from our friends, and Jim's mom, our lives were kind-of turned upside-down for a MINUTE.
Mrs. Faith tells about one day...she couldn't find Joshua. She thought that maybe he had walked down to Mrs. Thomas' class, but she checked with Mrs. Thomas, and he wasn't there. She finally found him in the bathroom, all alone, and crying because he missed his Mom...and he was worried about his baby brother.
Joshua said that Mrs. Faith said, "I'm not your mom, but I'll hug you and take care of you while you're here at school."
SERIOUSLY? I mean, do we not all want teachers like that for our kids?
No amount of money or training or classes can replace the tender words of a caring teacher.
Even so, PAY OUR TEACHERS MORE MONEY.
They have such an important role in our families, in our communities...and in the future of our country.
TEACHERS ROCK.
"...who knows if perhaps you were made...for such a time as this." Esther 4:14
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