I remember when I first met Sara. I did not actually teach her in grade 8 but she would come to my class sometimes (maybe even to get math help? I can't totally remember), She was probably just following Ali or Madison (both of whom I DID teach in grade 8) around but she definitely made an impression on me. She was so good-natured and confident and funny. I always looked forward to the rare occasions that she would visit.
Sometime during that grade 8 year, Sara's Mom requested a meeting. The three of us met in my classroom and Sara's Mom requested that Sara move to my class because [to be honest, I'd rather not say the reason why]. I had to inform the two of them that it was not possible to change classes at such a late point in the year. Sara looked so sad and I made some comment like "don't worry. I'm sure we will have many classes together in the years ahead". Foolish comment as it could have turned out that I NEVER taught Sara a single time. But, THANK GOODNESS (not just for Sara but for MEEEEEE!!!) Sara has been my student every year since. Four wonderful years in a row!!
Sara is very open. Maybe a bit of an over-sharer at times. But hey, so am I, so it's worked out great. We have had so many fantastic conversations, many of them related to her romantic interests... but not ALL! Other topics have included volleyball, Sara's Mom (Tanja!), Serbia (greatest country in the world, apparently), and our various sicknesses and injuries (Sara and I - but especially Sara! - seem to always be suffering from some fracture, concussion, sprain, cold, flu, cold sore, lip rash / burn, etc).
Sara has a huge heart. She has spent so many hours assisting others over the past few years at King George. She has refereed volleyball. She has done scorekeeping. She has even done multiple years of coaching! Whenever I have been stuck finding someone to volunteer, I have looked upon Sara as my "Ace in the hole"; an almost-certain "yes" every time I ask her to volunteer. What a generous person!
It's been an amazing four years, Sara. I admire you so much for your joyful outlook on life, your warmth, your sense of humour, and your just-go-for-it attitude in so many areas (volleyball, work, school, volunteering, Police Challenge, etc). You've brought so much joy and many, many laughs into my life and I thank you for it all! Hopefully we can enjoy a few more lunches together in the years ahead (thanks for that one at Joe's!). I know that big things await you in the future but I am already so proud of you!