Students returning to class during the phase-in process often experience a combination of nerves and excitement. It’s only natural after spending months away from a traditional classroom setting with their teacher and peers. Kimberly DeLuna knew her first-grade Olmos Elementary School students might be nervous when they walked into their classroom for the first time. So, she bought each student a “welcome back” balloon and tied it to their chair to celebrate their first day back on campus.
“I wanted to add a special touch to their first day of school by providing them a warm welcoming experience,” said DeLuna. “I wanted my students to know they were missed and loved by their teacher. It was extremely rewarding to see their faces light up with excitement when seeing their classroom for the first time.”
DeLuna is committed to making her students feel loved and valued as soon as they walk in the door. A balloon may be a small gesture to some, but to her students it meant the world. Especially after spending so much time seeing her face and hearing her voice through Zoom.
“One of my student's reaction was, "Wow, Mrs. DeLuna, this classroom is so beautiful." It was at that moment that I realized it is the smallest things that warmed up their hearts by simply standing in the presence of their own classroom that exceeded their expectations.”
Thank you, Mrs. DeLuna, for showing everyone how #NEISDcares.
