The Parties, Recognitions, Tears & Gratitude

It was all a bit overwhelming and it seemed to never end, all of the parties, recognition and the gratitude from past and present students and parents. How wonderful to be told you have made a difference in the lives of others. All of that said none of it would have been possible without the support of fantastic principals. Jim McNally was the first to have a profound impact on my teaching and then Dr. David Jones in my last year of teaching. I feel so very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with both of these men before I left the profession. Then there are the quality colleagues that I have had the opportunity to work side by side with.

So much of the school climate is directly related to the administrator but that is a topic for another posting.

On June 16th a speech was requested by the audience for which believe it or not I was not fond of doing. So instead of a speech I made what I hope to be a fun tribute to those I have worked with over the years.

At all times find joy and laughter in your days.

One last email to my class!!

Good Evening Everyone,
I must begin by saying there are no adequate words to explain my feelings. Each and every single one of you has a special place in my heart and a special memory I will carry with me.

This entire week has been filled with nonstop events.
Our field trip Monday took us to the EMP for science fiction and music. After school was a staff event for both Mrs. McKissik and I that was unbelievable with the help of Jeanni Thomas.

Tuesday we had Field Day, filled with games, fun and then on to square dancing and the Awards Assembly- where many of our classmates were recognized for their accomplishments.

Wednesday was the 5th Grade Celebration- a time to reflect and be proud of the growth that has taken place over the years at Cedar Wood.

Thursday brought tears, surprises and special memories for a life time. Thank you most of all for the kind letters. I will cherish them forever. The Memory Book is wonderful. Jim and I both will enjoy the Passport Card and will use it often -each time thinking and thanking the class of 07-08. I love the Bead Book and will get into the projects during the cold Alaskan winter. Not to forget the special meals made by Jeanni- what a treat especially for someone who does not cook!!!!!! You are an amazing person.

Each and every single child in this classroom holds a special spot in my heart. I wish you all the very best in life. Hold on to the moments they are what makes a life. Enjoy the challenges that life throws at you for that is what makes you strong and stop long enough to realize when you are happy.

Boys and girls many of you wrote "please don't forget me"- I promise I won't. Keep in touch with me through our blog. I look forward to hearing about your accomplishments in life. Continue to make me proud. Thank you for being wonderful people.

All of my love, hugs and of course Slugs!!

Fran Hartman
Cedar Wood ~ 5th Grade
425.385.7734
http://blogs.everettsd.org/fhartman/
http://allthingsfrommyhart.blogspot.com/

Setting sail in Sept. ~ follow our adventures@ http://capestjames.blogspot.com/

Looking at Retirement

Cedar Wood’s Fran Hartman was described by Principal David Jones as a “core educator who has worked for five different superintendents “and been an inspiration to every one of them.” Her science students have the top WASL scores in the state because of her creativity, flexibility, energy, innovation and student-centered attitude. She teaches children not only how to answer questions but to explain where those answers came from and is “absolutely brilliant” in the way she pulls in resources.

Fran thanked many in the audience for inspiring her. “Carol, YOU were the principal who opened the door to my teaching imagination by telling me that students needed a ‘hook’ for learning. That simple suggestion of adding music to my punctuation lessons was the beginning for me. Jim McNally, it was you who supported my work with NASA, and I know you went home worried some days. Dr. Jones, little did I know that you would challenge, support, encourage and help me to keep learning alive, even more so in this last year. Thank you.”