Take Your Wife to Work Day

Last week, I invited Ainsley into my classroom for the first time since we moved to New York. We had talked about making this happen last year but our work schedules never aligned in a way that warranted a visit.

Ainsley got to watch me teach two blocks and to be honest, I was a bit nervous. Not that I anticipated things going wrong but simply because I truly value her opinion. Over the years, I've become immune to visitors, observers and random folks coming in and out of my classroom. However, this observation, was different. It required a sense of vulnerability, exposing a big piece of who I am to the person I care most about. It's easy to tell stories about my kids and experiences from the convenience of my couch with a loosened tie but to have your wife in your classroom is another story altogether.

AINSLEY'S TAKE:

It was truly amazing to watch Andrew teach. The kids obviously respected him and were engaged in his lesson.  Sporadically throughout the lesson the kids had the opportunity to ask me questions.  I was impressed by the depth of their questions ranging from "What's your favorite book?" to "Have you seen Mr. Sundberg cry?"  Between lesson Andrew and I accompanied them to recess.  Here I found myself surrounded by 5th, 6th and 7th graders asking me questions about myself and Mr. Sundberg.  The highlight of recess was watching the kids partake in their usual recess activities: singing and "getting light."  The girls stood in a huddle singing- complete with harmonies and back up vocals.  The boys circled up to "get light"- a style of improv dancing, step and beat making.  It was incredible to watch!!  These kids are the real deal!  

I left the school with a smile from ear to ear.  I had stepped into Andrew's daily world, fell in love with his kids, and seen Andrew teach a powerful lesson.  I am so glad I went.