As I reflect on this opportunity and have almost completed my first week of school with my new students. I realize even more the  important words that Ruth told us at the All Write Consortium this summer: “Everyone has a story.”  As I meet my students and have a chance to talk to them,  I am listening differently this year.  We  have completed several  get to know you activities that take time.  I realize how important these early conversations are to building community. There was a part of me that wanted to rush those first few days so we could jump in to academics. There was a part that felt like  I needed to follow the crowd of teachers who already started their diagnostics in math & reading.  But this year I slowed down, I took the time to ask those important questions.  I am excited about this school year because I chose to start slowly, and I am remembering “Everyone has a story.”  Enjoy your first few weeks of school!