7 more days

Just seven more teaching days and I am out of here! 12 weeks have passed so fast.

I've learned a lot of things I never knew. Like, for instance, how to unlock doors while still wearing your keys around your neck on a lanyard (critical; I have to unlock three doors on my way in and out of school every day and the restroom also has a key). How to get them to read your announcement in the morning on the intercom. How to recite the Texas pledge by heart (Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee; Texas, one state ,under God, one and indivisible). How to walk up a staircase when 100 students are descending DOWN it. What not to eat in the cafeteria (almost everything, but the wraps on Wednesdays are good). How to pin up my bangs in a stylish fashion (thanks to Desiree and Jennifer in 1st period, and Vanessa in 6th). Where to buy Famous brand t-shirts (Pac-Sun, and Zumiez, thank you D'Shawn in 2nd and Luis in 1st). I have a greater appreciation for "slash heavy metal" rock (I didn't know such a thing existed). How to train my bladder when you don't get bathroom breaks for an hour and a half on block days. What's Intervention period, and what's Advisory. How to inhale food (only 30 minutes for lunch). Who is my friend. Who is NOT my friend (mean lady in office who reports everyone).

There are still some things I don't know. There are still LOTS of things I don't know. But I'd like to learn.

I have taught some kids that will stick with me when I go. Three of my particular favorites sit together in 6th period. 6th is the last period of the day but these guys keep me energized. I call them; collectively, "Rolly, Laughy, Chatty", so they call themselves "RLC" (we have kids grouped in seating arrangments i.e. "teams" of three and they sit in rolling chairs). Two of the RLC's are seniors and are bound for Houston Community College next year. One showed me his acceptance letter yesterday. Both smart boys; both without the financial resources to go right away to a 4 year university. I wish I could send them myself. What will become of them? I hope they succeed. These two; I think they will. Some of the others; not so sure. Most of the students where I teach are children of immigrants; many of their parents do not speak English.

I can't fix everything. I wish I could. These kids have taught me so much about so many things. I still have so much more to learn.