A phone call from a teacher

Today I got a phone call. It wasn't from a teacher.

Did I throw you off for a moment? Anyway, Dan called me because he got a call from a teacher. About Abby. It was not her classroom teacher but one of her "special" teachers -- specials are art, music, library and computers. As soon as the teacher said she was calling about Abby, Dan got a sinking feeling. You know, like "This should be interesting."

But the teacher was calling with good news! She wanted to brag about how awesome Abby is in her subject and how much she helps her out in her room and with other students. She was just delighted by Abby. And especially because in the fall, at the start of the school year, she could tell Abby just wasn't herself. She wasn't. The start of the school year was rough at our house. She didn't have any friends in her class, and the transition with me starting full-time work outside the house was also difficult for her. This teacher could tell she wasn't her happy, fun-loving self. Of course, we could too. We all worked hard together to help her get over the "bump" in her road. While she still hasn't connected with anyone in her room this year, she's adjusted and seems to love school again. Thank goodness.

I was so happy this teacher took the time. Not only to call us with that wonderful report. But also because of the personal encouragement and support she gives our daughter. By giving Abby responsibilities in the room and offering her praise, the teacher is setting her up for success. Those are the perfect ingredients for teachers to invest in an ADHD student, and the output is more focus, attention and involvement in the classroom! I wish more teachers took the time, and I'm so thankful for the many we have encountered who do. They make a HUGE DIFFERENCE in the life of a child.