As I sit on my couch scrolling through my newsfeed, I can’t even comprehend what we are even talking about.
As a teacher, I know how much I care for and would do anything to protect my kids, so I can’t even imagine how I would feel if I had my own. There is nothing I can say to ease the worry to any parent because honestly I have the same worry. We’re human, it’s only natural to feel these crazy emotions that we are all feeling. But what I do know is, god forbid if push came to shove, I would do everything in my power to protect your babies. That’s what part of my job is.
As teachers we wear many hats. We all know this, it’s not new news. But in this day and age, protector is at the top of the list. I can’t help but feel enraged about today’s events. We all went about our day while this was unfolding. I was at school, by myself until 4pm and still knew nothing. I’m not going lie, I had an eerie feeling as I walked out to my car in the back lot and saw it parked there all by itself. I actually had the thought ” hmm if something were to happen no one would know”. This is an uneasy feeling and it is one I should never feel going to or leaving work.
I strongly believe police presence should be in place on a daily basis. During drop off and pick up if they can’t afford all day. Children’s safety should always be the number one priority. I know that in my new school that I am at, I truly feel safe. All doors are locked at all times. Any one who enters the building must be buzzed in by the secretary after she looks at the camera footage. And no one is just allowed to roam a building for any reason whatsoever like I’ve experienced in the past.
I know I’ve read online that some people think this is just someone who needs attention, or a prank, or a copycat. Call it whatever you want! Either way it is NOT okay to put our children’s lives in danger and if we can prevent another tragedy from happening by keeping children home and safe, why wouldn’t we do it.
I will, however, wake up tomorrow, throw on my Wonder Woman cape and TEACH, PROTECT and KEEP SAFE the babies who will attend. Tomorrow will not be any different from any other day except that I will be alert. It is my job to not let on to my kids. It is my job to let them feel safe and learn at the same time, not worry or have fear.
My wish for my friends out there who have children who are debating to send them or not, trust your gut. You know what is the best thing for you and your family and never hesitate with doing the right thing.
My wish for my fellow teachers, put on your capes and brave faces tomorrow and make it the same fun learning experience like you do every other day. May they never know what is happening behind closed doors. Preserve their innocence and keep them safe.
xo
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