MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL — Sisters, our teachers have worked so hard this semester, and this week they finally get a real break. That’s why the Volunteer Committee agreed to respect their time off by sending only the absolute essentials.
As of Tuesday night, that’s 47 quick questions. Most were just one sentence. Several were a single emoji followed by a question mark, which is basically not even a question.
A sampling:
- Is the spring field trip still Thursday or Friday? (It’s in April.)
- Could you resend the class supply list, but as a PDF in the school colors?
- What brand is the hand soap in your classroom? Asking for a reason.
- Have you seen Harrison’s other monogrammed water bottle?
- Is it okay if we start the holiday décor in your classroom while you’re out? (We already started.)
- Quick thought on reading groups?
The teachers have been so gracious. Most responded with an automatic out-of-office reply, which we think shows real organization. Dr. Cathy’s is our favorite, and we’re sharing it because it’s so warm:
“Thank you for your email. I am on fall break with my family through Friday, October 9, with limited access to email. If this is an emergency involving a child’s safety, please call 911. If it is about décor, it is not an emergency. — Dr. Jane Cathy, Principal”
Mrs. Hollis’s out-of-office simply says, “I will respond Monday. The blue markers are still gone.” We’re not sure what she means, but we love that she’s still thinking about school.
Mr. Segewick replied to all eleven of his messages personally, each with the word “Monday.” Short, sweet, very farmer.
One teacher even responded in person. Sloane, who stayed in town this week to keep communications running, happened to see her at the grocery store Tuesday and asked a couple of quick things about the Halloween parade. The teacher was holding a rotisserie chicken and said, very kindly, “I am on break.” It was so inspiring to see someone set healthy boundaries. We’ve added her to the Teacher Appreciation Week Reel.
UPDATE: The Volunteer Committee has agreed to hold all remaining questions until Monday at 7 a.m., when we’ll send them all at once so teachers can get it over with. That’s 112 questions. We’re thoughtful like that.