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Day 4

 


Day 4: Little Moments, Big Joy

Life of a Support Facilitator

I had another great day — I truly love my job!

This morning started with a familiar knock on my door — the same boy from yesterday came by just to visit while I was making a token board for another student. He asked if he could have one too and proudly brought it to his teacher to ask if he could use it. I love how quickly students respond to positive reinforcement tools when they feel ownership of them.

Testing, Teaching, and a Touch of Humor

In my first class, I tested two students on a math assessment. I loved how the teacher provided each student with a small bag of 3D shapes to use as references — what a creative and hands-on way to support understanding!

When I entered my next class, several students greeted me enthusiastically, and one even held the door open for me. Another student immediately asked to work with me, even though he wasn’t on my schedule or caseload. Those are the little moments that make this role so special — when kids want to learn and connect.

After testing a few students, I headed to my next math class, where two more were waiting to take their assessments. While I was observing, one of my students caught my attention by holding up his whiteboard — on one side was his answer, and on the other he’d written:

“If you copy my answer, you are grounded.”

It made me laugh out loud. Even in the middle of testing, kids find a way to bring joy to the day.

Meetings, Mentorship, and Motivation

Later, I had a meeting — and I’ll admit, I always miss my Assistant Principal when she’s not leading! She’s been such a source of guidance and encouragement for me.

Afterward, I took a student upstairs to my room for testing. I love using my space because it’s quiet, welcoming, and a change of environment that students enjoy. They always seem to love the comfy chairs — and of course, the Eagle Bucks and candy they earn when we finish.

During lunch, I picked up a third grader to come test in my room. The highlight of my day came afterward, when we rode the elevator down and she said,

“I like you better than the previous support facilitator.”

Curious, I asked why. She smiled and said,

“Because you give out something every day, not just during groups.”

It reminded me that consistency, kindness, and small gestures make a huge difference.

End-of-Day Gratitude

I tested four more students in the afternoon, and one of them aced the word list all the way up to sixth-grade level — as a fourth grader! I told him how proud I was and how incredibly smart he is.

Dismissal was delayed, but I didn’t mind one bit. I got to play with one of the cutest kids ever while helping with buses that ran late until 4:15.

As the day came to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on how blessed I am. After 10 years in a separate ESE classroom, being a Support Facilitator allows me to reach even more students — each one unique, hilarious, and full of potential.

Every smile, every high-five, and every “Can I come to your room?” reminds me why I chose this path.

These moments — the small, everyday ones — are what make this job a calling, not just a career. 💛

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