Open House

Note to self: Not necessary to attend each year.

I think that is the wrong thing to say. But I also think it is true.

The school sent an email asking that all parents attend. And leave the kids at home. Yeah. Not possible for me. So I didn't plan on attending. And I felt guilty about it. I should attend. I should be involved.

But then Ladybug came home from school telling me the teacher said all parents must attend. And I began to think maybe there was something I didn't know. I mean, she is in kindergarten -- what do I know. So I went. With Ladybug in tow. And almost all the other parents brought a child (or 2) as well.

The PTA spoke. Now, don't get me wrong. I think the PTA is a wonderful thing. But I am not getting involved. I don't fit in with this group. I moved to an upper middle class kind of town for the good schools. I am the poor, white trash, person in town. I do not fit in with this wonderfully coiffed group of people who wore nice slacks, high heels, and pearl necklaces to the Open House. Some mornings I don't even brush my hair -- and some of those days are a work day.

Then the principal spoke. I loved his accent. But I am not sure what he said. Then they introduced all the teachers. All. Teachers, assistants, student teachers...all. I don't need to know it. And I don't remember them.

After all that we were invited to visit the teachers in their classrooms. Ladybug's teacher had a whole presentation planned. So we sat and listened. She was very good. But I could have (and would have) read it all in the folder she handed out. I think all of what she said was in the folder.

Then Ladybug took me to the music room. And announced she would like to learn the drums. No real surprise. But if that wasn't allowed (and currently it is not) she would like the piano. Drums are looking more and more like a possibility. And then we went to the art room. Where I found out that my sweet, precious, wonderful little girl has been pushing the limits. Requiring lots of redirection, instruction, and attention. Until yesterday. Yesterday she became a different child. She not only followed all the rules, she went above and beyond the call of duty. She took initiative and helped without being asked. I LIKE THAT!

So, if I move (when I move?) and I live in a small rural town, I will get involved in PTA. But if I am here again next year, I will not be going to open house. I missed an evening of braiding. And I have lots of braiding to do with this style.

Mean Mama