(Continuation of Ebola Mom Part 29 and part of the Ebola Mom series)
And 30 minutes after posting about life’s tendency to be awkward and uncomfortable, this lady. Right on cue.
Oh, I’m sorry. Was I supposed to respond?
Guys– I’m a little worried she thinks we’re friends.
Kid: “I have a really good idea for when I’m older. It’s going to change the world.”
Me: “Great. I hope you acknowledge me, your supportive and inspiring 4th grade teacher, when you do it!”
Kid: “I definitely will.”
Me: “So am I allowed to know the idea? Just so I can prepare for fame.”
Kid: “Yeah. So you know how subway cars are always killing rats that live in the subway?”
Me (already regretting any involvement in this): “Yeah…”
Kid: “Well, I’m going to start a program that will protect the subway rats.”
Me: “May I ask why you feel the subway rats need protection?”
Kid: “Like, why should they have to die? They’re innocent! They can be protected and domesticated. Kept as pets, even! Everyone in NYC could have a pet rat! We could save them ALL!”
I take it back. Don’t you dare mention me.
In fact, we never met.
Discussing fear as a topic for poetry.
Us: “What is something you fear?”
Kid: “Irresponsible adults.”
Well then, kid. You know what the map says:
I was just walking the halls at school and came across this student-written poster outside a 5th grade classroom. They are in the midst of a “Social Issues” unit, and these are some of the topics that 10 year olds came up with during a brainstorming of ideas– issues that kids in 5TH GRADE think we need to be talking about and tackling.
I am blown away and touched to see that Suicide and Depression made this list. This is such a clear and positive sign that the conversation about mental health is changing for this next generation.
Kudos to the 5th grade teachers for displaying this and creating an environment for open and honest conversation about ALL issues, no matter the stigma attached.
Kid: “I don’t even know why we have the Common Core Curriculum. It’s ridiculous. Kids don’t like it, parents don’t like it, teachers DEFINITELY don’t like it…” (Pauses for my reaction)
Me: “I have no comment on this. I’m going to stay out of trouble on this one.”
Kid: “Yup. This is exactly like with horseback riding. If the rider acts afraid, the horse will sense it. It’s the same with bees. They’re very sensitive.”
Me: “Exactly.”
That moment when your student hands you a teacher appreciation gift in a garbage bag. 
That moment when you run into your student on your way to a date, and he doesn’t recognize you.
Because you look like a human.
Celebrating #teacherappreciationday by cranking up the AC!!!! 
Yeah. That’s a bucket of ice next to a fan.
That moment when you overlook a student’s incomplete homework because she gave you a Starbucks gift card for Teacher Appreciation Day.
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