See Ya Later, Alligator

The arrival of summer means I don’t have to sub anymore. It also means that I will begin coaching in the mornings, opening my evening hours for quality family time and simple pleasures like sit-down dinners around the kitchen table. But—the most difficult of my realities to accept—it means my boy is now a middle schooler.

True to school tradition, the student body sang “See Ya Later, Alligator” to the fifth graders at the conclusion of today's end-of-year assembly. We attended the event to support Caleb as he received an academic achievement award. I was teary all day, but when the students waved, “good bye, fifth grade” as the oldest of the students filed out the back door, I bawled like a baby. I don’t like change in general but both Caleb and I are uncomfortable with the prospect of middle school. This moment has come much too soon.

It’s been a good school year. Both of the kids had good teachers. Caleb’s teacher was a bit hyper-intensive but overall, her structure and organization—even if it did border on OCD—was just what he needs. Alyssa had job-sharing teachers which means each worked only part-time. Mrs. King taught Mondays and Tuesdays and Mrs. Cole taught Thursdays and Fridays. Wednesdays alternated between the two. I really liked both of them as people and as teachers.

Caleb and Mrs. Rottle

Mrs. King, Alyssa and Mrs. Cole

I’m always annoyed by the amount of workbooks, folders crammed with papers and left-over school supplies the kids bring home at the end of year. Alyssa even declared, “I think my backpack weighs more than me. “ Where am I supposed to put all of that stuff? Caleb’s pencil box did give me a good laugh though…

Clearly this is a boy who: (a) has a pencil sharpening obsession and (b) struggles to throw things away. I can’t say I’m surprised.

(Please don’t let him get eaten alive in middle school.)

Whether I like it or not, my little boy walked right out that elementary school door today.

After while, Crocodile. Hope to see you in awhile.