Yancy is a very independent 5th grader at Borman Elementary in Denton, TX. He usually makes up his mind right away on what he wants, wants to do, or doesn’t want to do. Last year, Yancy was a student I had to pay a lot of attention to. He was quick to get defensive whenever he felt put down. Early on I told him that whenever there was a stressful situation he should come and talk to me.
This year has been off to a great start. Always coming to CIS prepared with his materials and books, Yancy has really taken on the role of an awesome 5th grader. What impressed me so much was his willingness to help out, which was a huge change from last year. I love to give all my students an opportunity to help or to clean during club time. Yancy was never one to volunteer himself last year. However this year Yancy will shoot his hand up to the sky whenever an opportunity presents itself. He is quick to grab a broom and to start sweeping.
Within the last week the 5th graders were working on Student Council posters. Before I could examine the work that needed to be done to clean up, I saw Yancy get a broom and delegate roles to other students. I quietly watched from afar and saw him hard at work. With all seriousness, he was picking up pencils, pom-poms, and glue from the floor. He put all of the supplies in its right location and helped students get things where they needed to go.
In that moment of observing these small actions, I could see the qualities of leadership and responsibility emerging from Yancy. I was so proud and impressed. I hope that Yancy continues down this path, and I will be able to provide him with all tools and resources to continue to blossom his new found spirit.
