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More Lessons from Room 106

In Room 106, during the second semester, my students and I read and discuss Esperanza Rising together. This book is the story of a young girl who faces tragedy in Mexico and is forced to immigrate to America with her mother.  They face challenge after challenge as they try to acclimate to their new life.
Before we begin our reading, I always ask my students to respond to a question in their journals.

I read the journal responses of my 120+ students today.

Once again, I was reminded how much I learn from my students in Room 106.
Once again, I was reminded how fortunate I am to be a 6th-grade teacher.
Here are some of their responses:
When someone is faced with challenge after challenge, how can they learn to appreciate life?
·                   Focus on the positive
·                   Help others
·                   Cut out the negativity – even if this means people
·                   Notice the little things because they are really the big things
·                   Count your blessings
·                   Become more grateful
·                   Encourage yourself with a pep talk
·                   Encourage someone else
·                   Learn to be more thankful for the little things
·                   Look for value in everything
·                   Build relationships
·                   Rely on friends
·                   Remember that everyone struggles at some point in life
·              Remember you aren’t alone!
·                   Allow the challenges to make you grow stronger
·                   Spend more time with family
·                   Take a break/relax
·                   Create your own happiness
·                   Remember life is all about hills and valleys
·                   Know there is someone else who has it harder
·                   Become content with what you have
·                  Smile more
·                  Love life no matter what
·             Remember each day is a gift
·             Remember the good times when bad times occur
·             Accept the bad ~ Embrace the good
·             Laugh more
·             Rely on your faith
·             Pray
·                 Stay healthy physically and emotionally
·                Plan for disaster
·                When bad times happen, dwell on good memories
·                Seek advice from experts


I do wish I could have more one-on-one time with these fabulous human beings. I could learn so much more. 

~ Jan đź’“

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