Support isn’t always academic

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Support isn’t always academic

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The very definition of the word “wow” is that it is an exclamation expressing astonishment or admiration.  Modern slang paired with sarcasm has changed the meaning in some contexts to mean the exact opposite – to indicate that something is unimpressive.  My wow story is a story of resilience, strength, perseverance, and of Jesus’ faithfulness and unending love. 

 I have a student who was 4 years old when she lost everything.  Her house, her dogs, her cats, her sense of security, her safety.  She remembers waking up to smoke and the fire alarm in the middle of the night.  By the grace of God, she and her parents made it out of the burning house safely.  It was a rental house and none of their belongings were insured. 

Through God’s faithfulness, although not a smooth transition, they were able to find a new place to stay.  Clothes, stuffies, and school uniforms were donated in droves for the student. Teachers brought meals.  Scholarships for tuition were awarded. 

Fast forward 6 years, without going into details that are not mine to share, this child of God has experienced more to give her a high score on the ACEs measure, than most of us have experienced in a lifetime.  But through all of this, because of the support of LSEM, our school staff, and scholarships our school has offered, she has been a part of the school and church community, learning of God’s unending love for her. 

This week, in addition to supporting her academic needs related to her learning disability, I have spent time with her asking, ‘why the tears?’ She shared with me that her father is very ill and hospitalized.  I have prayed with her every day since she told me this, and I have been in contact with her mom to let her know of my prayers and ask how I can help.  My husband delivered a casserole to the school for me to send home with her.  I can’t fix every problem she’ll face, but I can wipe away her tears and give her space to feel her feelings.  And most importantly, in addition to teaching her academics, I can and will show her God’s unfailing love.