It's not Teacher Appreciation Week here, but if it was I'd like to acknowledge:
Mrs Hastings - developed a love of poetry in me when I was only nine. Told my Mum I would grow into a woman that stopped men in their track ( a real reach for a scabby little tomboy who already had self-esteem issues)
Mrs Waterfall - such a kind and caring soul. Gave me the cuddles I craved and treated me as if I was special.
Mrs Mortain-Cogar - taught me for two years, was a native French speaker and gave me a flawless accent (I've been told) although I retain almost nothing of the vocabulary now.
Mrs Collinge-Hill - recognised me immediately. I have no idea how. I'd been at school six weeks and she gave me a reading in the school carol concert. I was a 2nd year - readings weren't given to anyone lower than the 5th year. And then cast me as Mustardseed in A Midsummer Night's Dream. Cutting lines from other people and giving them to me. She could be a sarcastic bitch, but she used to give me a lift home after late rehearsals, or get someone else to do so. For my first year at the Floyd I had more friends amongst the teachers than the pupils.
And just to add - I was in the town's only independent off-licence at lunchtime, looking for something unusual for Dad. I got him a bottle of Makers' Mark in the end - not common in this country. Anyway, seconds after I'd entered, Katelynn burst in. I volunteered in her class last school year.
(I was so pleased I wasn't reeling about the place looking for tramp-juice)
We had a hug and she told me why she was in town (eating al fresco practically next door - I'd waloked past her oblivious) and I told her I was looking for a present for my Daddy.
My word. Working with children is amazing.
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