Izzy and I share a passion for music. We have had many good conversations about different bands over the years. In fact, I can no longer hear Tegan and Sara (who released a pretty good album this year) without thinking about Izzy. I remember in grade 8 she missed school one day to go to Seattle.
Me: What's happening in Seattle? Doing some shopping or something?
Izzy: No. I'm going to a concert.
Me: ...............
And we are not talking Taylor Swift or One Direction here (no problem if you like those bands). I can't remember but it was probably something like Mac Demarco or Cage the Elephant or something. I mean, what grade 8 kid goes to Seattle midweek to see a concert at some 500-seat venue? Only the coolest grade 8 kid ever!
It was Izzy (and Sebastian, I believe) who are responsible for the naming of Secret Daddy! What? You don't know Secret Daddy? He is the stuffed animal puppet Spider that lives at the front of my room (near the electric pencil sharpener). Izzy found his name using some online naming game and "Secret Data" stuck. And he has now joined Izzy on a trip to Europe as well as at her recent graduation photos. Any chance of sending one of those for me to post here, I.D.?
One thing I love about Izzy is the way she speaks about Mr. Sinclair. She LOVES that guy. It's so sweet to see a student who has obviously formed a tremendous bond with one of the KG teachers. And I love the fact that Izzy doesn't try to downplay it in anyway. She's up front about it: "Sinclair is the best. Sinclair is awesome" etc. The only thing that would disappoint me is if she had never told Mr Sinclair these opinions but I think it is safe to assume that he is well aware.
Izzy is one of those inspiring people (inspiring to me, anyway) who really don't give a darn what others think about her. She's comfortable with who she is and she does not waste time trying to please or impress others (and, in doing so, she ends up impressing me anyway!). Never lose this quality, Izzy!
Izzy, you have made me laugh on so many days and in so many ways. You have an incredible sense of humour. You are smart. You are dynamic and confident and so interesting. You like good music!!! You are, quite simply, fabulous! I am so lucky to have taught you three times and I will truly miss you next year. I wish you well, Izzy Data!!!