Parents, have I told you lately how much I appreciate you? In particular, your countless volunteer hours have been on my mind. I don’t know how I ended up with such an enthusiastic, committed bunch of parents, but without a doubt, I have. I would wager a bet that I have more volunteer hours clocked in Room 5 on a weekly basis than any other classroom at Manor.
Here is what I love about my volunteers. First, there is a contingent of classroom helpers that have steady jobs in Room 5 each week. Carolyn teaches science on Thursdays; Krista and Kathryn lead math games on Fridays; Alice taught mindfulness techniques ever other week in the fall; and Deb plans amazing garden lessons or leads a center each Wednesday. I have come to count on these ladies to come prepared to do their thing—and they always do.
My math volunteers Paul, Katherine, Gina, and Jo show up each week and provide the invaluable extra support that has enabled my second graders to soar in math.
There are folks like Lisa, Peter H., Peter B., Lisa, Tayu, Kim, Melissa, Abby, and Amy who come in for their scheduled shift never knowing what to expect… They sign in, look around, find out what needs to be done, and make it happen. Sometimes they become instant leaders of center games or activities, without missing a beat. They’ll pull up next to young readers and provide an ear for oral reading. They’ll clean up messes and maintain the Creation Station. Nothing seems to be out of the question.
Grace comes in after school for an afternoon each week and maintains the fish tank—a thankless but necessary job, since it would be a cesspool if it were left up to me. She also waters the plants, which again, would be seriously neglected without her.
Jennifer comes in most Thursday afternoons to assist in art class with Ms. D. Just the thought of being around that much creative chaos makes me queasy. I know Ms. D. appreciates the extra hands.
And don’t let me forget the parents who drive, again and again, on our fieldtrips. We literally could not do it without them.
Of course, I have a couple of fantastic room parents—Amy and Katherine. As a former middle school teacher, they help me to remember that there are celebrations to be had. They plan memorable parties and events for the class. They also communicate the things that get lost in the shuffle of my mind.
I know there are many of you who serve the MAP community in other ways, like Rick, Grace, Katherine and Amy who serve on the MAP board. I know some of you are involved with the larger Manor community, participating in the PTA and Winter Faire, like Lisa; and running the Peace Mentor program, like Kim.
Parents, thank you. I am so impressed with how you have stepped up to the challenge of working in a classroom with a teacher who is often times figuring things out as she goes. There is a special measure of peace in knowing that I could call on any one of you to help me out with a special project at a moment’s notice. You all are absolutely vital to the functioning of this fantastic place we have come to know and love, OUR Room 5.
And, of course, Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without some sweet treats to enjoy. Thanks a bunch to Amy for providing a yummy ending to our day. 
