Kim Frencken: That perfect lesson

Time is ticking. Literally. It is almost time to greet those smiling faces at the door. And I want a lesson to knock their socks off. Figuratively.

So, I'm on the search. What will it be? What will create a lasting impression? What will make them forget summer and get excited about school? It's a tall order, but I think I can come up with something.

I'm in preparation mode. My fingers are clicking away. Slower than my mind. I've just about completed the search. I'll only need a few finishing touches. And then! BAM! The best lesson to date. It will blow the kids away! It will make them wish school was seven days a week! It will make them wish they went to school every single day of the year.

And then! BAM! Reality hits. I remember that I've never been 100% successful. I've planned, spent hours decorating and setting up the classroom, and got everything ready for a perfect kick-off. Boom. My bubble is burst. After all of my hard work, careful planning, and enthusiasm, someone doesn't like it. Nothing is perfect. Not even the best lesson in the world. In the wise words from my mother (who probably borrowed them from someone else), "You can't please everyone all the time." So true. There will always be that someone that just doesn't like it. And that's okay. Maybe I'll get them involved with the next attempt.

(For more of Kim Frencken's writing, check out her blog, Chocolate for the Teacher.)