George, I am not a pet person. Never have been, probably never will be. But... your story puts me in mind of a wonderful book for younger readers (maybe age 8-12?) called, appropriately 'Just a Dog', by Michael Gerard Bauer. As a non-pet owner (we had chickens for the eggs, and guinea pigs for who knows why) I didn't really have an understanding of the connection that can be made between people and animals, but MGB's fabulous book made me laugh and cry, and gave me a little insight into how that bond can be created. As does your lovely post. Cheers. Mif

I agree too. Reaching out to kids, meeting them wherever they are at, creates an opportunity to connect with them and make them feel special (which they are, of course, but sometimes they don't know that :)). Everybody likes to be acknowledged. She's one smart cookie!

George, I'm sure that FGS is sad to see you go. You have been an inspiration to me on the other side of the world (I'm a teacher-librarian in Australia), but I know from your posts that you have had a huge impact on FGS. I feel sorry for the next principal - I hope they have big feet! Good luck in your new job - I hope you keep on posting your stories of school life - big and small. Cheers!

I LOVE the look of this blog, and I'm RSSing right now. Thanks for the reviews.