Revisiting Former Students

For the past few years, there is something that I have really looked forward to at this time year--the Senior Showcase. Every year, the high school seniors have a senior project that they spend all year researching, planning, and preparing for. The projects are centered around areas of interest for the students. I've looked forward to it for the last few years because, well, I've been teaching 3rd grade long enough that my students are graduating!
The students set up in the hallways, commons, and cafeteria (with even a few outside) with displays of their projects. In years past, it was easier to find my former students because there was a "program" and map of the students and their project locations. So this year was a bit trickier. Some of my students were easy to spot because they still have some similar facial features, but others were more challenging. Some of them were surprised that I had even remembered them. One former student saw me and said, "Hey, Mr. Oetjen!" As I turned to see who it was (he was one of the easier ones to recognize), I said, "Hi, Nate!" just as he was beginning to say, "Do you remember me?" His eyes lit up, and it felt nice to chat with him and catch up.
The variety of projects was interesting. Miranda had a project that focused on green burials, which I've seen a TED Talk on and think it is an intriguing concept (I unfortunately didn't get to talk to her about it because I was at the showcase a little early and not all the students were by their projects). Cullen had a plan for motorcycle safety with an idea for creating airbag pants. They are based off the idea of airbag jackets, which I didn't even know existed. JT created a basketball training website that can be used by players to maintain their skills. Evan's project was centered around an engine overhaul that he did for a car that he has been restoring. Seth created a weight training website, and Nicole designed a saddle cover for horseback riding. Nate's project focused on mental health awareness.
Even better than seeing the projects is hearing what their future plans are! Sam is heading into veterinary medicine, Cullen is joining the Marines, JT is looking into business at UW-Oshkosh (my alma mater!), and Nicole is going into nursing. I only wish I had more time to see if I could spot more students, learn about what they've been up to and where they're headed, but I had someone at home who needed to get to soccer pictures and softball practice. I know that next year, though, I'm definitely going to request a map, even if they aren't giving them out to everyone!

Mindfulness thought for the week: Don't give your energy to those who will waste it.

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