Today my grandson, Luke, goes to school for the first time. Yes, I know I wrote about his first day at school last week. He's doing it over again. And I'm glad.
Last Wednesday, Steff and Geoff sent Luke off on the school bus, just as the school asked them to do. The school's request was that students who might be riding the bus during the year should ride on the first day so they would be aware of what the experience is like. The parents were assured that there would be people waiting at the school to help the younger children get to their classrooms.
Steff and Geoff then went on to school to see Luke in his classroom for the first time. But when they arrived, there was no Luke. Shifting into panic mode, the asked the teacher about their son. The teacher told them to check the playground and other areas of the school. Otherwise, the teacher showed little concern for Luke's well being.
Steff and Geoff began to hurriedly search the school campus. Frightening thoughts began to run through their minds. What if Luke didn't get off the bus? What if he somehow walked off campus?
Finally, Geoff found Luke walking down a hall, trying to find his classroom. Luke wasn't panicked or afraid. He was just trying to find his classroom. A five year old trying to do for himself what the school had promised they would do for him!
Two very relieved parents brought their son to his classroom. The teacher hardly acknowledged Luke's presence. Steff and Geoff were stunned that there wasn't more concern from the teacher about Luke's safety.
Steff then spoke to the principal. She was very apologetic. She showed sympathy. But then she said, "We have 900 students and your son was the only one missing."
Unbelievable! How do you think that made my daughter feel? When it comes to the safety and care of kids, 899 out of 900 is not good enough! We don't expect our schools to be perfect. But when it comes to safety and protection of our kids and grandkids, perfection is necessary and expected - no other standard will do.
Luke spent the day at that school. He did not go back. Instead, he begins his second first day of school at a Christian day school where the administration and teacher has assured Steff and Geoff that they will do everything possible to love and teach and care for their son. I know the school and its track record and I'm confident that there will not be a repeat of Luke's first "first" day at school.
By the way, thank for reading along. I try not to use this blog as a soap box to rant on and on about stuff that bugs me. But Luke's my first grandson. Like all of my grandkids, he's special. I thank and praise the Lord for watching over Luke and keeping him safe during those frightening minutes at the other school last week. And I thank the Lord for opening this new door of opportunity for him. PTL!
Ok, I'm done. Thanks!
