A Story Full of Heart
One teacher’s story, a soldier’s impact, a classroom’s heart (From the classroom of Jessica Markowitz, 2nd grade teacher, Central Elementary, Plainfield…)
Two years ago, we wrote to Andy Mapes, who was stationed in Afghanistan. That “pen pal” experience was amazing. My class is now writing back and forth with another friend, Rikki Salyers, who is currently stationed in Afghanistan. We first sent letters to her this fall. The children told Rikki about themselves and then asked her questions about her job and life at home. She then replied to each child, telling them about her sleeping and eating quarters, her job in the Army, and about her pets at home. Each child was VERY excited to have a personal letter reply. Rikki also dedicated the American flag flown over her headquarters on November 17th to our class. To remember this very special day, she sent us a memorial plaque and the American flag that was flown that day. It was overwhelming to have such a special honor placed on our classroom! This has been a very personal connection for the children to experience. Since Rikki will not be joining her friends and family in Indiana this Christmas, our class is sending a little bit of Christmas to Afghanistan. The children will be decorating a hand print Christmas tree and individually decorated ornaments for Rikki. This tree and handmade Christmas cards/letters will be sent to Rikki with a care package. This is my opportunity to teach the children about kindness and thinking of others this holiday season. I know that the children could not imagine being away from family this time of year, but if the children work hard on bringing joy to someone who is sacrificing their time for our freedom, I hope this will be something my students will always remember and continue to do for others.
http://www.dvidshub.net/holiday/278229/capt-rikki-salyers#.TszyprJCCqQ.facebook
