I can not believe...

I'm the mother to a second grader!?!? When the heck did that happen?? This year flew by so incredibly fast. 1st grade was a learning experience for all of us. Hayden learned what it was like in a real classroom and to have a teacher that really cared what the student learned and how they behaved, unlike kindergarten. He excelled in Math and Reading, beyond even our expectations. He even learned what it was like to get a referral and have a parent teacher conference about something other than grades. :()
So on the last day he made a card for his wonderful teacher, who would not be returning to teaching thanks to a school district heavy in debt. We also planted a little plant and gave her one of her most favorite things, a monkey :) Here's Hayden with the card and monkey. Very proud of his handiwork.The plant for her home to remember Hayden by...
and finally Mrs. Martinez. She was very caring, stern, and wonderful to Hayden. Just the kind of teacher I wanted him to have. She made things fun but was darn sure the kids were learning what they needed to learn. She reminded me of my favorite teacher form school, although not as wacky :) I am very sorry she was lost in the district crisis and wish her all the best that the world can offer her right now.
Hayden and some of his friends from this year and last. :)