“House Shopping”

Dear Teacher,  
 

For several years, my family has been "house-shopping."  Likely, you've done it, too.  Our living status is officially "In the Market for Our Long-Term Home."  Although we've owned four homes during our 19-year marriage, this one seems significant.  We are now in a place in our lives that we're choosing to settle, to develop relationships, to build longevity.  We are looking for a place that feels like HOME.

So it's not with urgency, then, that we search for our HOME.  In stark contrast to home-purchases we've made over a weekend, we are taking our time.  My daily Zillow searches scour the ever-changing list of residences.  Is this home private and yet accessible?  Is this a place where we will have easy access to friendships?  Is this a place we can relax and just be 'us?'    Sure, we pay attention to square footage, floorpan layout, and overall appearance.  But for us, the most important question is, "Will our home be safe?"

Our home search is not that much different from that of your students.  Recently, they've entered your doors for Open Houses and First Days.  They've likely been in classrooms before and had teachers prior to you.  Yet, when they step foot into your classroom, they're asking all those "first-time student questions."  Is my teacher private and yet accessible?  Is this a classroom that I will have easy access to friendships?  Is this a place where I can relax and just be me?  Will this classroom be safe place for me academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually?  

So, you, teacher, there in your classroom, have likely spent the last few weeks turning your classroom into a HOME.  You've decorated your door with a visual welcome mat.  You've positioned your furniture to accommodate all types of learners.  You've ensured the lighting is soft, yet functional.  You've turned a blank rectangle into a place of warmth and acceptance.  As educator Samuel Vo says,
 

"Teachers, your students don't love you because of your class decorations, clothes, bitmojis, lessons, etc.  It's you.  They love you for who you are and how you treat them.  Just be you."

Home-making with you,

Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor