Some days you just can't make it up. Some days you just roll with the punches. Funny how that works.
Friday the 8th, I was subbing at K-6 small school. I was in the 5th-grade classroom. The more I substitute, the more I enjoy the variety and unpredictability. I was warned that this was a tough class. As I try to do, I ignored this advice. My sub plans were adequate, and I was ready! The class comes in, and immediately I have to set the boundaries with a few students. No problem. The morning was going quickly. The students were doing very well. I was excited about the progress. Then, the PA system went off that we needed to evacuate immediately and to have the students grab their coats. There was no sign that it was a fire drill. I heard someone say that someone had smelled gas.
I put on my teacher hat and hurdled my kiddos out the doors. We were back at the playground equipment. Then other people came towards us urgently. We were not back far enough - MOVE! At this point, my anxiety brain starts flashing - this is not a drill. I was worried it might be a bomb threat. We were evacuated to a church across town. I am so thankful for that option. It was a safe feeling.
So all kids accounted for, all adults trying to act calm. I sent a message to my mom quick, "We've been evacuated from the school. We are safe in a church. We don't know many details. I love you." This, of course, frightened her. Not more than me. I was holding it together until this sweet child asked me for a pencil. I just happen to have one in my pocket. He wanted to write a note to his mother only in case. I wrapped that boy in my arms and hugged him.
Moral of the story, don't panic. Love your kids at every opportunity. I believe it was a false alarm. Either way, this is an experience I will not forget.
When you are a teacher, you never know what to expect.
