Today I had flashbacks of all the years I taught Middle School in West Side of Phoenix.
I was invited by on of my students, Barbie Firkus from GCU, to come to her class. She teaches the refugees at Palo Verde Middle School where many of them attend. She has about 28 students in two different classes representing about 20 countries ranging from Syria to the Congo. Every Friday, she has Firkus (her last name) Friday, so today I was invited to come in and read to her students. I decided to bring Tatum.
When we arrived, they led us to the classroom with fancy visitor badges. Walking through the school reminded so much of my teaching days. I miss those kids! They were all so well-behaved, and I know that in this environment, that can be a challenge, so I give such kudos to the school and all of their hard work.
We were welcomed with a sea of beautiful foreign 13-year old faces and a nice sign.
It’s a lovely story of unconditional friendship and the danger of gossip.
After, Barbie (Miss Firkus) had them make some friendship bracelets. We discussed to book too as we shared the importance of kindness. She definitely models this.
We thank you, Barbie. You are a dynamic, amazing teacher, and I’m so honored to know you. You can tell they love you to pieces. You are making a difference in their lives, and they’ll never forget you. I know I won’t. We felt so welcome!
