Teacher Feature: Michelle Perry

Dear Students,

I want you to know that I have been in your shoes. I remember what it is like to have butterflies in your tummy as you walk down the long hallway into the classroom every morning. Asking yourself, “Will I know the answer if she calls on me? Is she going to make me read in front of EVERYONE?” Or wondering, “Am I doing it right?” when your teacher is walking back and forth and then stops, hovering over your shoulder. I know that what you want more than anything is to know the right answer, to be finished with your work as fast as the other kids, and to not want to be afraid to raise your hand and share in class. I know that the book you are carrying around in your backpack is not a “good fit” right now, but all the other kids are reading it. I know how you feel because I was in your shoes.

So I am here to tell you, that today and every day, I will support you when you need it; challenge you when you need it; and comfort you when you need it. Sometimes you will need me to sit with you and give you a little extra “think time;” sometimes you will need a quiet space where I can show you again; and sometimes you are going to make mistakes. But guess what? That’s okay. Because I make them, too, and we can learn from them. Sometimes you might just need a little wink, a hug, or a hand on the shoulder to let you know, YOU GOT THIS. But most important, I want you to know that I will be there for you, and I understand that your job being a kid right now can be tough. Trying to juggle learning about life, friends, family, reading, writing, and math; it’s a big job. But there are lots of people who love you and know you can do it. Together we will grow and learn, and I will be there to help you understand yourself as a learner. I will be your coach and your cheerleader because I have been in your shoes.

Ms. Perry