My Difference Makers

I think it's totally worth sharing the letter that I sent to Evie's preschool teachers this evening. As the "school year" comes to a close I wanted them to know how magnificent they are.

To Evie's Preschool Teachers:

I got home this evening and went through Evie's evaluation with Stephen. We appreciate the time you took to look at Evie's progress throughout this year in the Frog room. I know evaluations can be quite stressful for teachers and parents, and I commend you for all of the hard work that goes in to completing them.The evaluation painted a perfect picture of where Evie is right now. We know that several of her skills and developmental areas remain delayed. None of the areas marked N (not observed) or E (emerging) were a surprise to us. We'll continue to work on those areas.The number of S's on her evaluation was a testament to the hard work that loving teachers and caregivers have poured out into Evie.

Your feedback was so thoughtful and communicated very clearly the love that you have for Evie. What a difference the compassion you show her has made in both her life and mine! I cannot overstate it when I call you both (and Ms. Sarah) my difference makers this year. You empathize with Evie. You respect her and you believe that she is something special. You made a meaningful connection and relationship with her.Whenever there was an issue or incident in the classroom this year, you both handled it with a heart of grace and patience. You both see past her struggles and what she can't do. You choose to focus instead on helping her and supporting her. You see and value her gifts, interests and strengths. 

I thank God every Monday and Wednesday afternoon for placing you in my life during this season. You've set a very high bar for Evie's future teachers! Thank you just doesn't seem like enough. We are incredibly blessed and will hold our difference makers in our hearts forever.