SURPRISE!!

I knew she (my wonderful CT) had something up her sleeve by the way she folded and quickly stuffed notes into the students backpacks. But exactly what, I wasn't sure. My last day was Friday, December 10th. The day began as usual: journal writing, DLR, review for test, and test. During this time, I fnished some last minute paperwork for my binder and recorded homework grades. Then, the other 5th grade student teacher called me out of the classroom. When I returned, the classroom was empty and there was a sign on the door that read, IN CUMBEST ROOM. I didn't know whether or not I was supposed to go over there, so I took a couple of minutes to finish recording the kids homework. Since no one returned to class, I decided to go see what was going on! The door was shut and the lights were off-- true sign of a surprise party. I opened the door, they all said, "SURPRISE" and sang the SWEETEST song to me. It was then that I realized exactly how much these kids have affected my life. After I left the classroom, tears filled my eyes. (It's hard for me to show emotion in front of people. Unless it's Austin or at church. So, I usually let it all out in private. I surprised EVERYONE when I didn't cry at our wedding. Something about the crowd and attention being on me. It makes me emotionless.) I can't believe this chapter of my life is ending. These kids have been my "guinea pigs" and have taught me so much. There were days when I questioned my calling as a "teacher" and felt as if I'd accomplished nothing. Then, there were days that I KNEW I did it. Somehow, I'd managed to keep their attention, avoid classroom distractions, and simply TEACH. I'll miss these kids and will remember each of them. Here are some pictures from the party:

With ALL the presents from my kids. Notice the "bumb" @ 17 weeks.

Cookie Cake- mmm..

Opening gifts-- ROLL TIDE necklace from Debbie :)

The lady in the background is Cindy Cumbest (our team teacher). I've enjoyed getting to know this wonderful, Christian woman and will greatly miss our talks.

The best gift! The kids made these books for me. Each student wrote something they love and will miss about me. I laughed and cried as I read them.
Here are a few:
"Mrs. Tanner, we had our difficult times (like when you made me change my card) but I still like you." Another- "When I first saw you, I thought you were going to be a great teacher. Turns out, you are!" One more- "I'll always remember going to the cafeteria and popping popcorn with you. And we always had to share it with the cafeteria ladies." They're too cute.

Smith Homeroom.

Cumbest Homeroom.