I stole this idea called “Friday Letters” from a former-teacher-now-principal in my district. On Fridays, my kids can write me a letter–about whatever they want–and I’ll have a response letter for them on Monday.
Last Friday, I got a really touching letter from a precious girl who was asking for my advice on an issue. I gave her my letter today and at the end I said I’d be happy to chat in person if she wanted. So she stayed after class and we talked briefly. I don’t want to go into details about a student’s life, but suffice it to say that I was totally blown away by this 17-year-old’s maturity. When I talk to kids like her, it’s impossible not to be optimistic about the future.
one good thing 