Big Man Makes an Assist

Today, as I was coaching my son's undefeated basketball team (2-0 baby!), I saw a former student of mine. He was actually a player on the opposing team. After the game, we shared a brief moment. It was special and warmed my heart. Moments like this are precious and add fuel to the fire that is my passion for education. On special occasions, our acts of kindness and love we give students comes back to us. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career thus far.

I have not seen this young man in over 5 years. I remember him for his charisma, intelligence, and warm personality. We spent a LOT of time together. I was his assistant principal, so you can infer what that means. We interacted quite often. There were many difficult episodes. However, his charisma still made him a student that regardless of his behavior the adults at school all loved him. When he got in trouble, it was emotional for the school staff as well. We all wanted to see him do well and it pained us to see him have such a hard time. During the game, someone pointed him out to me and told me who he was. It was hard for me to place him because he has literally grown at least 2 feet since the last time I saw him. In today's game he proved himself to be a solid big guy in a league of 11-12 year-old's. He owned the glass and dropped in several put backs. He was by far the best player on his team. I noticed he played with composure and a level-head. His teammates looked up to him. Kids on my team knew him and respected him. I know it was basketball but I definitely got the sense that he has matured and is on a good path.

After the game I went up to him and shook his hand and told him who I was and the school where I once worked. It took a second, but then he did recognize me. After he remembered who I was, the handshake turned into a hug initiated by him. Between that and the smile on his face, my soul was given a dose of pride. This is why I do what I do! I know he remembers me in a positive light. That feeling is so rewarding. It also tells me to keep fighting the good fight. Keep giving extra attention to the most difficult kids. No matter how hard it is, show all your students that you care. Never give up on troubled students. These are the students we must champion! I wish that every educator that reads this is one day rewarded with a moment like this one. What we do makes a difference!