Celebrate!

My students are so incredible.  Literally, they're incredible!  We have been doing MAP testing the past couple of weeks, and not only have these students rose to the occasion, they've KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK!  I've never seen a group of students work so hard to be the best they can be in EVERY area!  I am truly blessed to teach these sweet souls!  In order to celebrate their accomplishments, we had  "Dress for Success" Day!  We dressed our Sunday best in order to show that we mean business!  Their achievement was recognized, and when they were asked why they were dressed up, they were able to brag on themselves.  You know, sometimes it's okay to do that... we must teach our children to celebrate their success and believe that they are great!  I also made stickers for them that said, "Ask me how I did on MAP!"  They wore these loud and proud!  I was in awe at how excited something so small could impact a group of children.  It pushes me, if nothing else.  As a teacher, I am creating memories.  My BEST school memories come from third grade.  I hope these children grow up to remember the times we celebrated their success, and I hope they remember to continually celebrate their success.  It's a hard lesson to learn in motivating ourselves, but it's one of the most important lessons we must learn.  Our drive is what creates our passion, and our passion creates who we will be one day, and who we will be one day has the potential to change the world... so, CELEBRATE!