I loved elementary school. I had wonderful friends. I loved that my school was big and it had big stairs to play games upon. It had the biggest swings in the world and the fastest merry-go-rounds. There was a giant tree to climb. And, the smell of Arctic Circle wafted through the entire area. It was the best place to be. But, my very favorite parts of Washington Elementary were my teachers - except Mrs. Scott, she was terrifying! In 5th grade I had a 50/50 chance of getting the teacher I had NOT wanted since 1st grade. And, probably as an answer to my many prayers, I got Mrs. Hill instead. Her name was Reva Hill. I LOVED her. She had an awesome library with so many books and a place to sit. You had to walk into it, like it was a separate room. She let us watch Reading Rainbow each week. And she always treated me like I was the teacher's favorite. Later I learned that my friends in that class felt the same way. I got to have her again in 6th grade for the language arts block of the day. In our district, all 6th grade students came to Washington Elementary from the outlying elementaries. Somehow when we were all divided up, I ended up in a class without any friends. I didn't know any girls. There were a couple boys from Washington, but they were boys. I was very uncomfortable. I struggled feeling like I fit in. But, the entire afternoon was language arts and as I walked into Mrs. Hill's room, I almost cried because I felt so welcome and that I belonged there. I think that is why I remember her so fondly. She loved me.
When I begin a new school year, I make it a point to help each student feel like they are my favorite - even if they are difficult. I hope that when they enter my classroom, they feel a sense of welcome and know that they are loved. That is the influence of Mrs. Hill.
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