6th Grade's a Wrap

I have to admit, I was a wee bit anxious about the transition from elementary school to middle school for my son.   For six years, kindergarten through grade five, we had the good fortune to be in the same school together.  He as a growing student and me as a teacher.  Yum.  Such a gift it was! For six glorious years I was able to watch him grow, know his teachers and coach him from the sidelines.  As it came time for him to graduate and move on, (I knew it was time and he was ready)  I was a teeny bit apprehensive.  What of?  I wondered.   I was a middle school teacher myself for twelve years so I knew the deal.  I had awareness of all of the adolescent discord, body chemistry alchemy, peer morphing and regrouping, and still I had an eensy bit of uneasiness.  I know middle school can be rough on kids. 

But he was ready.  I was ready.  And we let go of that elementary comfort.  

The first bit of good news was that his 6th grade team teacher was an old student of mine many years ago!   Lucky!  I knew her and I had loved her.   Fantastic.   The second bit of good news was that the team of 6th grade teachers met with parents early on and I was absolutely thrilled with their assurance and confidence that they were there for the kids 100%.  Anders started right off the bat with a great team of teachers and continued to thrive throughout the year. 

To make a long story short - YES!  6th grade was just right for Anders.  He was happy, successful, made new friends, and all in all, had a very good year.   We got his report card in the mail on Friday, and my favorite part of all besides the fact that he aced 6th grade, was the group of comments from his teachers:

"Anders consistently demonstrated his passion for scientific learning on a daily basis through his hard work, creative collaboration, and unwavering commitment to excellence."

"Anders brings great energy to class, and shows confidence and strength.  He is a very capable musician." 

"Anders is a thoughtful and inquisitive student.  He is self motivated and works diligently on his own.  When a topic interests him there is no stopping what he can produce.  I am so proud to see the growth he has made this year."

"Anders continued to amaze and impress me during math with his careful questions, deep conceptual understanding, exceptional focus, commitment to collaboration and consistent positive participation.  I have no doubt that Anders will continue to achieve at the highest level in math during the remainder of his middle school years.  Bravo Anders!"

How lucky he was to have such a caring group of adults surround him as he made his way through sixth grade.  Now - off to the big summer in front of us and then 7th grade!  May his new team of teachers be as caring and may the worry gremlins lay low in my belly as he makes the transition to the next group of students and teachers.