Life in the 7th Grade - May 4, 2011

Wow…it has been so long since I have posted a blog.  I apologize…I have been really busy…just don’t ask me on what, because I can’t remember.  See, as I am writing this, I am sitting in Raymond’s Multiple-Handicapped classroom where he is in 7^th grade.  I am “Nurse Mama” today.  See, Raymond started attending school with a nurse 3 years ago because of his ever increasing health needs.  Luckily, Raymond’s Grandma Vangie is an LVN and through a nursing agency, started attending school with him full time.  Did we luck out or what?  I mean, who better to watch over him and take care of his needs that his own Nana, “Nurse Nana” as she is known in the class.  Well, this January Nurse Nana got the chance to do a partial retirement and is now working only two days a week.  Because of the state budget cuts and Raymond’s ever increasing size, we do not have a nurse for the other 3 days a week……so, back to school I go. As I am sitting here, Raymond is working with a Vision Therapist and doing very well.  The other kids are involved in a game.  This situation has been good for me, to see the daily workings of his classroom, what his schedule is like, and what abilities he demonstrates in the classroom.  Plus it is so much fun to play and work with the kids.  I used to help in our older son Roman’s classroom when he was little and have always participated in Raymond’s field trips and parties.  But to be here half of the week and see the daily activities, I am so grateful for the hard work of Raymond’s teacher and the aids and specialists that work with the kids, like the Speech Therapist, the Vision Therapist, School Nurse and of course Nurse Nana and the other nurses that are assigned to other children.  The staff in this classroom is very dedicated to these kids, it is clearly evident.  I joke often that I have gone back to the 7^th grade and am learning a lot...like grammar, science and art.  I am learning….about dedication.  The dedication that is displayed in Ray’s class is beautiful to see and is full of love, not just dedication for their job, but their love for the kids.  Often I tell the teacher…”Thank You.” over and over again, but really … Wow…I just realized that today is “Staff Appreciation Day”….and I am really appreciating the hardworking staff in Raymond’s classroom.  What a coincidence…really…I didn’t plan this out at all, just realized it.  The staff here is truly talented and gifted individuals that give their hearts to these kids every day.  Thank you to the staff in Raymond's class!!!

Thank you Lord for the chance to see life from the 7^th grade.  ~Mom