Dear Educators,
As we approach the conclusion of the school year, we wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt sentiments. Whatever transpires in these final weeks, please know that it’s not a reflection on you.
It’s all us. We sincerely mean that.
At the start of the academic year, our excitement is palpable—we’re thrilled that summer has come to a close. However, as the finish line looms, it feels akin to the last grueling stretch of a marathon, and we’re stumbling toward it with sheer determination. We may come across as sluggish and unmotivated, but trust us, the end is challenging for everyone involved. You know that Friday feeling, when everyone is just ready to be done? Yeah, that’s where we are now.
Outfits
When the school year began, our children donned crisp, clean clothes, perfectly ironed and free from stains. We ensured that they looked their best, with hair combed and teeth brushed. But now, as the end draws near, that standard has slipped. Please overlook the bedhead, remnants of breakfast, and the fact that they may be wearing wrinkled shorts pulled straight from the laundry basket (we’re a bit behind, alright?). And let’s not even talk about those scuffed shoes—we’re just not ready to invest in new ones this late in the game.
Lunches
Remember those nutritious, lovingly prepared lunches from the beginning of the year? Well, fast forward to now, and our kids might just be taking whatever they can find in the pantry. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich paired with M&Ms? Sure, why not? We’re all about quick, minimal effort meals at this point. We might toss in a sad banana or some canned fruit to avoid any concerned calls from authorities.
Homework
If you’re expecting projects that demonstrate creativity and effort, you might want to adjust your expectations. With the weather getting warmer, sports practices, birthday parties, and that irresistible urge to play outside have taken over our lives. Getting the kids to focus on anything other than their bikes or friends is a monumental task—like trying to fit an octopus into a pair of tights: messy and frustrating.
Backpacks and Folders
We apologize for lagging on reading and signing all those important papers. This time of year, our children bring home a mountain of paperwork: newsletters, permission slips, assignments, and more. It can be overwhelming! We hope you’ll accept a quick scribble in crayon as our “signature” instead of a formal one.
Treats
We may have volunteered to bring a treat for the end-of-year celebration, but that was eons ago when we still had energy. So when you see “Twinkies and Goldfish Crackers” as our contribution, think of them as a creative assortment of snacks rather than a last-minute grab. It’s all in how you look at it.
We know we’re not alone in this exhaustion; you’re feeling it too. Managing a classroom full of energetic kids is no small feat! Let’s come to a mutual understanding: we’ll navigate the essential tasks, like standardized testing (we’ll ensure the kids get enough sleep and a proper breakfast), and then we can both ease into the final days of school. You can overlook our kids’ ragged appearances and missing assignments, while we turn a blind eye to extra recesses and endless reading sessions.
It’s a win-win that allows us to recharge for what’s ahead.
Warm regards,
Parents Everywhere