As a parent of two wonderful children, I have had the opportunity to step on several different types of toys that are scattered throughout the house. In many cases, it ended up with tears in my eyes, along with a long conversation about the importance of cleaning up after ourselves. Over the years, I have realized that it is okay to be a little messy.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) are popping up more and more. We need to know and understand that not every child has had the same experiences in their life. I stress to the students in my classroom that each day is a fresh start, and no matter what, I am there for them. Academics are important, but so is social and emotional status.
Just like the rooms in my house, we all have to remember that it is okay to be a little messy. We all go through things in our lives that aren’t so pleasant. We are…messy. It’s okay.
To make things easier, the overall learning environment is important. Some organizations say they are a family, but Benton Community lives it. This district is truly family, and I am lucky to be a part of it.