Memories of first impressions from school – Shaw Local

In September 1962 I started kindergarten.

I was 4 years old and didn’t turn 5 until November 2nd. The cut-off date was December 1st and I was usually the youngest student in the class.

I attended morning classes at Edison Elementary School in Kankakee. My teacher was Mrs. Jett. I remember she had dark hair that was curled at the ends. She wore glasses that seemed fancy to me; they were cat-eye shaped with tiny rhinestones on the corners. She always wore dresses and pretty necklaces.

Mrs. Jett read books to us as we sat on the floor around her. Students sat at tables when it was time to practice cutting or work on papers with pictures outlined in purple and the unmistakable smell of a mimeograph machine. Using a thick Crayola crayon, we diligently colored in “all the things in this picture that are red.”

After school work, we went outside to run around the playground and then came back inside to get a carton of milk and a cookie. After snacks, everyone unfolded a mat from the pile and lay down to rest while Mrs. Jett played a record of soft music. I don’t remember ever falling asleep, but it was nice to just relax. And before we knew it, it was time to go home.

I’m sure that classroom was much busier than I remember from 62 years ago. Since I’ve worked in schools, I know how much work and preparation teachers and staff put into getting everything ready for their children. And yes, students become “our children.”

I may not remember all the details, but I do remember my first year of school being a positive experience. I was a shy child. A few years later, we discovered that I was very nearsighted. When I got glasses and could see better, most of the shyness disappeared.

In that first classroom, I felt welcomed and safe. My teacher was calm and patient, which reduced my shyness. Success led to confidence, which led to a lifelong love of school.

Things have certainly changed a lot in kindergarten over the years. But learning through play is still an important part, and teachers work hard every day to integrate and welcome all of their students and create an atmosphere of community. Teachers are superheroes.

Our youngest granddaughter is starting kindergarten this fall. She is quiet and shy at times, and it reminds me of 1962 when I was a shy girl slowly entering Edison Elementary School. I know that Evie’s teacher will see all of her talents and inspire her and teach her to rise up, just like Mrs. Jett did.

These first impressions remain with us even when we move on.

When I got glasses, my first pair had a chic cat-eye shape and little glitter particles in the corners that looked like rhinestones.

Thank you, Ms. Jett. And thank you to all the caring teachers and staff out there.

I wish everyone a great school year!

Karen Roth is a semi-retired librarian/teacher living in Ottawa. She can be reached at [email protected].