Kids rise to the occasion, every time. Once again, my faith in my students has been bolstered by a crisis. Last Wednesday, our house burned down. It was sad, tragic, overwhelming, devastating, and simply unfathomable.

Coming back to school yesterday was tough. I knew there'd be questions and questions and questions. What I wasn't prepared for was the outpouring of love and hugs and hugs and hugs.. from kids I know and love, from kids I don't know... They didn't pry. They didn't ask questions that were inappropriate. They simply hugged me, told me they loved me and they were sorry. Several made cards or posters. One girl collected a coffee can full of pennies for me. One offered me some of his chickens since most of mine perished in the fire.

Kids rise to the occasion. What a comfort to have them during this time....