Panther of the Month

(Not the official school logo)

He worked all month towards his goal -- "Panther of the Month". Each month, all of the teachers choose one student from their classrooms to receive this award. The importance of it might have missed me altogether had I not listened to his heart, seen his efforts, or applauded his successes. After winning . . . strike that . . . earning three awards at the quarter's-end assembly, he was certain he'd be a cinch for the Panther award. He talked for several weeks of the possibility and asked if I'd come to the assembly when he received his honor. Then the day came when he asked, "Mom, do you have to work Friday?"

"Yes, Jason. I work every Friday."


"What time do you get off?"


"8:30." His cheeks sagged to his shoulders along with the frown that pulled his lips past his chin. What he didn't know was that my supervisor was out of town and when she returned, I intended to ask to leave early from work. This boy worked hard for his award and deserved to know how proud I was of his efforts.

Friday came, I raced out the door and belted into the passenger seat of our van as my husband rushed me to the school so I didn't miss this auspicious occasion. He can only earn this award once a year, so if I miss it, I'll have to wait a while. Not happening.


In the gym, I found a seat on the bleachers at the back, camera poised for the moment Jason's name was called and he stood at the front with his teacher.


Who knew I'd be unable to keep my eyes dry whenever I looked at him that day?



Have a Blessed December,

Karlene A. Jacobsen
(Anna-Karls)

Sufficient Grace Writing & Editing Services
anna_karls_j@yahoo.com
http://kannjacobsen.blogspot.com
http://anna-karlene-jeffrey.blogspot.com

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A Million Words or LESS?

Everyone who knows me has known that I have home schooled my children since my daughter was going into 1st Grade. That was 13-years ago. She is now a student at Macomb Community College and is doing pretty well.

Today, my younger two of three sons set out on a new adventure. They have entered the formal classroom for their education. A charter school near my home accepted them into their ranks this year. I love it because this school, although public, is able to choose their curriculum and teaches the children a moral focus each month.

 This moral focus closely resembles the fruits of the spirit if you ask me. But, as the principle, Ms. Young says, "We can't teach religion in the public schools. We CAN, however, teach universal moral codes."

Part of their moral focus grade--YES they get graded on this--is whether they show up on time, do their homework, hand it in on time and their overall attitude and citizenship within the school grounds.

I find it quite refreshing that a school places such high regard on this code of conduct. I'm all for ensuring my children get their schoolwork done on time, walk into class well before the tardy bell, and have already warned them, "If your principle has to call . . ." Of course, these boys are great guys. I'm sure they'll do well.

(I am considering a personal challenge. Each month, I hope to write a short story using the focus topic. I think it would be fun. Who knows, maybe it'll get my creativity flowing again. It's been so tough lately.)  

Who knew, though, that I would be sent away from their school with homework, including a DUE DATE?

I wonder if they know what they're in for. My assignment? "Tell Me About Your Scholar! In A Million Words Or Less . . ." Due date, September 12 (next Monday). Giggle.

I'm excited about their homework assignments for the first day. Getting to know the teachers and the students, they played fun trivia games. Andrew needs to write a paragraph discussing his name, what it means, and how his parents came about naming him. Jason must find five things that represent himself and bring it in to show the class. Due Thursday.


Thanking God everyday for you.

Anna K. Jeffrey
Writer/Editor

Sufficient Grace Writing & Editing Services
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