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What I Wish I Could Have Told My Son’s Fifth-Grade Teacher at His Graduation
For weeks, my friends have been asking, “Are you feeling sad about the school year ending?” and I’ve been quick to respond, “Not at all! I’m ready for summer!” I’ve been daydreaming about lazy mornings in pajamas and stuffing the lunch boxes way back in the cabinets where I won’t have to see them for a while (I really dislike packing lunches).
But then this week rolled around. My fifth grader had party after party, each one celebrating the end of an era: his robotics team celebration, his safety patrol gathering, and the parent-student kickball game exclusively for fifth graders. I watched you out there, racing around the kickball field, laughing with the kids as they tried to tag you out. It was a joyful scene.
Last Friday was the big fifth-grade party—cosmic bowling, a chorus of fifth-grade girls belting out Taylor Swift songs, and yes, a photo booth. I chuckled when I saw you jump in with the other teachers for some fun shots, just like the one at my niece’s Sweet 16 last fall.
Earlier this year, my youngest asked me to join him in the photo booth, and I hesitated. This time, I took the initiative. I asked my tall, lanky 10-year-old to step away from his pizza and join me for a picture. No baby on my hip this time, just a reminder of how quickly they grow up. This year has really made me see how fleeting time is and how rapidly children change, often overnight. I now embrace those spontaneous hugs and silly photo moments without second-guessing.
Recent events have highlighted just how crucial you are to my children’s lives and mine, beyond curriculum and tests. I’ve learned that in times of crisis, teachers will go to great lengths to protect their students, even putting themselves in harm’s way. When disasters strike, I understand how you would worry about your own family while caring for mine. It’s a heavy burden you carry, and for that, I’m truly grateful.
Thank you for dedicating this year to my child, perhaps the last year I can genuinely call him a child, and for nurturing his love of learning. Thank you for the Friday dance parties, the reading breaks, and the current events that sparked his interest in the world around him. Your encouragement to participate in writing contests and think beyond the standard curriculum has made a significant impact. Thank you for holding high expectations while also showing him kindness when he needed it most. I’ll never forget the day you sent me that picture of him on a field trip, knowing I was far away, with the reassuring note: “We’re having a great day.”
Tomorrow, the little boy I once dropped off at preschool, tears in my eyes, will graduate from elementary school. He’s not fully grown yet, but he’s on the right path. I can’t shake the feeling that we’re entering a new phase, that this is a pivotal point in his childhood, and my time with him is shortening. I’m incredibly thankful for this past year—a year filled with joy, laughter, and stories shared with you. Middle school is looming ahead, and while I’m a bit nervous, I’m also excited for what’s to come.
So, thank you for everything. Thank you for your humor, your patience, and the love you showed my son when you didn’t have to. He was fortunate to have you as a teacher, and so was I.
What I Actually Said to My Son’s Fifth-Grade Teacher at His Graduation:
“Thanks, Ms. Adams! Have a great summer!”
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Summary:
In reflecting on my son’s graduation from fifth grade, I recognize the invaluable role his teacher played in nurturing his love for learning and supporting his growth. From the fun parties to heartfelt moments, I am grateful for the impact she has had on his early education. As he prepares to transition to middle school, I feel a mix of nostalgia and excitement for what lies ahead. This year has been a wonderful journey, shared with a dedicated teacher who truly cared.