Every student is your child.
Its the hardest thing, in my opinion, educators have to deal with when they develop relationships. My students are my children. They know that. I remember each and every face. The names blur. Homeroom teacher for most of my career. Blessing and a curse.
One of my former students committed suicide. He was one of the “challenging” students according to many of his teachers. I never laughed so hard that year when he and his classmates were in my homeroom. I taught all of his brothers and sisters. Many memories.
He was on Facebook. Just discovered 366 people wrote about this young man to date. Stories and memories. Pages and pages.
We grieve in many ways. I am not going to ramble on about the implications for Facebook and other social network tools in this case. Not now.
I guess I will post.
Shaun, so sorry to hear of this loss. What a tragedy. My good friend’s brother committed suicide at Christmas, 19 years old and had a very similar experience on Facebook with an outpouring of grief and memories.
Shaun, your words tell me that you are an amazing teacher. I’m sure you were a positive impact in this student’s life.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your post is a beautiful expression of your grief. I think teachers are some of the hardest hit when this happens. A good teacher can see their students for their fullest potential, even if the student and parents never do. You knew a side of this human being that others may never have known. I hope you continue to have the courage to express your thoughts and feelings through your blog. I began blogging after a personal loss and found it to be a great support when I was at my lowest. My heart aches for you as you begin this healing journey. Be gentle with yourself!
So sorry to hear of your loss. It’s always difficult when a student or former student passes away. It sounds like you have some wonderful memories to draw on for strength and to comfort you.