I Dream of Eternity

In a crowded and chaotic 4th-Grade classroom in Alexandria, Virginia, 29 students from all walks of life and speaking seven different languages discovered they could write a poem. Some began the year struggling to read single-syllable words. Another swore he would never read a book (he has already devoured 17 this school year). Only one began the year on grade level academically. Most were more than a year behind expectations. The classroom was not tidy. It would never be featured in some magazine. It was noisy, messy, and sometimes stinky. It was kind, vibrant, and safe. The families believe in these students. The school administration sees greatness in each of them. Their teacher knows they are all destined to soar. Their self-confidence and mutual respect for one another are growing by leaps and bounds. So too, are their academic accomplishments. These students are well on their way to beginning 5th grade on or above grade level, not because of a poetry book but because we all believed. Keep an eye on these young poets. They are our leaders of tomorrow.