By Guy Smith
Ientered a school house as a first grade student in 1963; kindergarten did not exist in Pelion back in those days.
Mrs. Garvin, our first grade teacher, had a reputation that preceded her. Even as six year olds we had heard from our older siblings that she was NOT warm and fuzzy, and definitely not a lady to be trifled with. They were right. I still distinctly remember what it looked like under her desk: extra shoes, empty mason jars, spider webs, and dust. As I remember, just one session of exile there was enough to set me on the straight and narrow path. She also made me and my cousin move our nap mats apart from each other, but you get the point. Despite, or perhaps because of Mrs. Garvin, I navigated first grade successfully and grew to love school. In fact, school became a great avenue to direct my life.
From 1963 until retirement in 2020, my life followed the cycles of the school calendar: back to school in August or September with an open house, Labor Day, fall festivals, Thanksgiving, Christmas break. Return in January, spring break, sports seasons, midterms and finals, report cards and promotions. 52 years of school lunches.
First as a student, then as a teacher, and finally as a school administrator, the school year cycle gave purpose and structure to my life. Bell schedules and the district calendar served as my circadian rhythm. As our students, teachers, support staff, and leadership teams head back to school this fall, they once again enter this cycle. We all should remember that for some the school cycle is comforting and nourishing. It was for me as it is for most who choose a career in education. Because of that, there is a danger that we fail to recognize that for others it is scary and even overwhelming.
After several years of retirement, I still miss school lunches, but for some students the cafeteria is a lonely or scary place. I looked forward to report cards and teacher comments; many do not. My friends and colleagues have been in the school area, and I still stay in touch with many of them. School is where I met my wife.
Unfortunately, some students pass through their school years in loneliness.
School set me up to enter a rewarding career. For some, school failures set in motion years of frustration and defeat. As I look back on my 52 years in school I have few regrets, but I do have many reflections and wonders. Often when I run into a former student, colleague, or employee I question myself… and sometimes them… as to whether I treated them kindly, fairly, and respectfully. Did I recognize their unique personality and gifts? Did I give enough grace? Did I spread joy?
As we enter this back to school season, each of us, whether in school or out, will have opportunities to interact with students, teachers, and school leaders. Together let’s strive to give them what we all needed when in their positions: support, fairness, a second chance, adequate funding and supplies, and yes, love.
Wishing you all a successful school year!
