The end of the 2017-2018 School Year

This week marked the end of the 2017-2018 school year and as I expected, it brought with it a lot of emotions for me. We are finishing up a truly phenomenal year and I am just so thankful for the truly amazing educators that all three of our kids were lucky to have worked with this year. It feels like just yesterday we were sending them all off with the hopes that they would have great years and they all exceeded our expectations. 

This was the BEST year we have had with Colin to date. Much like it is every time you go through something difficult in life, it is hard to imagine what it's like to be on the flipside. This year was the first year that there was not any litigation or difficult IEP meeting and for the most part, it was just a normal school year. In a meeting at the end of last school year, Colin's current general education teacher and I sat down to meet each other and talk about 2nd grade and she said to me "don't worry, I've got this" and she really did get it. She was the definition of inclusion in all of the ways she seamlessly made sure Colin was a part of all classroom activities and although we communicated throughout the school year when it was needed, it wasn't really needed a whole lot. Between Colin's general education teacher, special education teacher, and his paraprofessional (all women we are so incredibly grateful for), he made meaningful progress and was so incredibly happy. When I saw all 3 women on the last day of school, I couldn't help but cry with gratitude for all they did for Colin this year. 

First Day of School

Last Day of School

Last Day of School

Kailey had a great year as well. She really enjoyed her teacher and her class and made a lot of academic growth this year. She loves learning and took her homework very seriously this year (almost to a fault!). We watched her reading, and confidence in reading, take off as the year progressed as well as her writing. Although her spelling isn't always the best, she loves to write and we find her written notes all throughout the house. She is also very talented when it comes to drawing and particularly loves to draw unicorns and princesses. She is a far better artist then I can possibly manage! There are most times when she is the most doting, sweet, and loving sister but there are also times when her brothers pester her and she has little patience. We've been working really hard this year on the whining but I'm not sure that ever changes! Since this time last year, she has grown 3 1/4 inches and gained 8lbs (although I'm pretty sure the 8lbs must just be in her bones!). We were really proud of all that she was able to accomplish this year! 

1st Day of School

Last Day of School

Last Day of School

Cody made so many big changes this year although the growth happened very slowly. At the start of the year, the most difficult challenges we faced with him were the tantrums over every little thing. We have always felt that part of Cody's difficulties were due in part in trying to keep up with Colin and Kailey. While many times it seemed like he was older than his 3 years of age, he was only 3 and we were reminded of it in the ways he handled many things, especially when things didn't go the way he wanted or expected them to. We have felt that 3 has been VERY difficult, however, throughout this spring we have really started to see his maturity and ability to handle things far better when they don't go his way. The tantrums and lack of flexibility often come as a result of tiredness, lack of nap, or after a long weekend and/or busy few days in a row. He is otherwise, a very happy little boy who loves all things sports and Paw Patrol. After seeing all of the positive changes this spring, we can't wait to see what 4 will bring for him! 

1st Day of School

Last Day of School

The 2017-2018 really was a FANTASTIC school year and we are so very grateful to the wonderful educators all of our kids were blessed to be with this year!

1st Day of School

Last Day of School