Jan 18 - Wednesday

Good morning!  Though everyone is in their usual morning routine / rush to get ready for the school day, I have a few minutes to reflect on what an amazing trip this has been so far!  We've been in Gaston for a week and I think it's flown by so fast because I'm working hard, having fun, and enjoying discussions with such wonderful people!  The Landers have welcomed us graciously into their home, the teachers at KIPP are dedicated to their students 24/7, and the students on this trip inspire me to be better and make every day count.

Every day when we arrive at the school, we get a letter from Mr. May with shout outs and the task list (a teacher's work is never done!).  So I thought I'd send a few shout-outs to people for everything they've done this week:

• Jeremy, Pamela, and Melody: You've been such great leaders!  Thanks for all your hard work planning this trip and motivating the group every day!
• Sebas: Your comments after the movie and in every reflection have always made me stop and think.  Stay passionate about what you can give to the future of education!
• Jessica: Great job jumping in right away to work with Ms. Russell!  I can't wait to sit in on your Shakespeare lesson tomorrow!
• Anne: Your positive energy throughout this entire trip has been so refreshing and helpful to all of us!
• Raven: Thanks for suffering through hours of Lexiling books with me!  Excited to present for the World History class with you today.

And if I had the time, I would send a shout-out to everyone on the trip!  Thank you all for being such hard-working people who are passionate about education and dedicating to giving back to others.  Off to KIPP for another long but fulfilling day!

-Jess