Wish List

Times are financially hard in the world, and education is not exempt. About a month ago, we had to make a list of the things we currently use that we might be able to do without. We all know we will have to make sacrifices for a while in our classrooms.
Last week at our faculty meeting, we were asked to make a "wish list" of items we'd like to have if there is a miracle and money suddenly becomes available for such purchases. OK, the real truth is up to the word "have" in the last sentence.
The next day, a BRIGHT yellow paper appears in our mailboxes. I notice that many of the teachers have taken theirs out, but I have left mine in. I just can't bring myself to write the things I really wish for. I don't think the school district can deliver--even if there is a miracle.
1-I wish that every kid came to school well rested.
2-I wish they all had good shoes and warm coats.
3-I wish the students could count on help with their homework every night from some grownup in their house.
4-I wish that parents would call and ask what they can do.
5-I wish that students would not have to worry if they will get a birthday present.
6-I wish that the kids would have a warm breakfast and a hug before they leave their houses.
7-I wish that parents would expect their kids to do well.
8-I wish that every student had a teacher who genuinely cared if they succeed or fail. Some who need it the most receive it the least.
9-I wish that students (and parents) would value what happens at school as much as they do their WII.
10-I wish that I could figure out how to reach all of the hard kids.
11-I wish that the hard kids would buy into school.
12-I wish that parents could be the moral compasses in their children's lives.
13-I wish I didn't have to defend putting all the pencils in one bin to share throughout the year.
14-I wish I could let the kids know how much they ARE loved in my class, and that I believe they can do it!
15-I wish I knew the best way to teach subtracting with regrouping so the kids get it.
16-I wish that none of my students were exposed to R rated movies or violent sports events. (Yes, I teach second grade. Yes, I have students every year who do see these things.)
17-I wish that kids could see how great reading is.
18-I wish that we could have more time for science and art.
19-I wish that I could have a little more time so we wouldn't have to feel so rushed.
20-I wish that every teacher in my building had enough white construction paper to last the year.

I love my job and I love my students. I feel so blessed to be a teacher. These are just my wishes on a star...

Love,
Kathy