To My FIRST Students,
Thank
you from the bottom of my heart. When you walked in on day one of summer
school, I could tell most of you were not "happy" to be spending your
days with me. But over the past four weeks I have seen such a shift in attitude
and effort that I simply COULD NOT be prouder of you.
I
was so nervous on day one, I nearly lost my breakfast! I was scared I wouldn't
connect with you, or you wouldn't think I was qualified to teach. But you
welcomed me into your classroom community and challenged me to constantly
improve my teaching style. The feedback and encouraging notes did not go
unnoticed and will SERIOUSLY help me in my first year of teaching. I know my
future students will benefit from the work we did together this summer, so they
thank you as well.
I
want to be very clear that this is not the end. My dream has always been to
live in Los Angeles. When I was placed in Las Vegas, which was not my first
choice, I was upset. But I decided to trust the powers that be and give it a
try. And if being placed in Vegas meant getting to meet and teach all of you
this summer, than it has already proven to be well worth it. Know that I am not
leaving forever. Know that if you put in equal effort, we WILL see each other
again. Know that even from another state, I am cheering you on everyday in
class and in life.
High
school is an amazing time, don't waste it on things you may regret. Spend time
with the friends that make you better. Do things that will help you get to
those goals of straight A's, college, and beyond. If I could go back to relive
high school I would just spend more time with my friends. They are all over the
country now and those moments when we were all together seem to have come to an
end, at least until we all start getting married. So savor the joyful moments.
I'll
leave you with a quote from my favorite author and poet, Mary Oliver:
“Instructions for living a life.
Pay
attention.
Be
astonished.
Tell
about it.”
I
hope you will live an adventurous life full of joy and love. And I really hope
you share your experiences with me. Send me an E-mail every once in a while.
Text me a picture of the first A paper you write this year in English class.
Show me your poetry and college essays! Above all, be you, because you are...
Wonderful
All My Best,
Ms. Danielle Landau
