Dear Class of 2023,
Oh my Covid Freshman… You know, I have to be honest with you, I didn’t think I would be as emotional as I am about you graduating. Turns out you little stinkers snuck your way into my heart. As I’m writing this I’m looking at a few of you that won’t be here next year and I’m trying to hold back tears so you don’t think I’m crazy. I am looking at your graduation announcements. I feel so honored when you bring them to me, I love posting them up where I can see them from my desk. Shoot, now I’m crying.
Class of 2023, I am going to miss you.
You were such tiny Freshman. You were timid and sweet. We had fun learning together, we tried new things. We learned making ice cream in mason jars actually doesn’t work, at least not the way we tried to do it. You learned how to make analysis statements with the best of them. Then we made our way through a scary Spring Break back in 2020 that resulted in video classes to finish up your Freshman year. I distinctly remember those of you who would try to be sneaky and play video games while we held our virtual classes.
Then you were sassy sophomores adorned with masks. Bless your hearts, it’s hard enough to be a sophomore and you all did it with crazy words like “cohorts, masks, protocols, and e-learning.” Bowling with the “covid cones” in the hallway at the end of the year will always be a happy memory of mine that will make me think of you.
Junior year things were a bit more normal, it was your first chance to be real teenagers in high school and you did it well.
Here we are, your senior year and with it you brought back school spirit and crazy high school behaviors that are part of being 17 and 18. Oh my kids, you are so resilient. You have been through a lot in four years. You have grown, physically (you boys get so tall) and emotionally. You know how to handle what’s in front of you and you know when you need to ask for help.
I am so thankful for those of you who come back to see me, just to see me, even when the snack drawer is empty. You all know I had a hard start to the year and yet you stuck by my side and I appreciate you all so much for making my days the fun and crazy days that they are. They won’t be the same without you. This morning one of your classmates told me that someone will take her place. She’s right, there will always be more kids who make their way into my heart. And yet I need you to know the holes you leave behind won’t ever be filled with an exact match.
Class of 2023, you are incredible, each and every one of you. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of
your lives for the last four years. I’ll tell you one last time. I love you all, make good choices, and have fun.
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