[sic]

Often, in a year end exam question, I will require my students to tell me the most important things they have learned over the past year. The wording of the question clearly delineates the criteria. This is an essay. Be precise and concise. Use evidence, including specific details.

Most students comply.

However, especially since I've taught high school, the odd student here and there will capitalize on an opportunity to kiss up. This always makes me grimace. And sometimes, sometimes, I smile. One lovely ninth grader made me smile today as I was grading the last exams I will (ever/indefinitely?) grade.

There is very little evidence. This essay has not been proofread as thoroughly as I would have liked. Specific skill sets are not referenced.

I gave her full credit.


wow, ms. K the year has been amazing! Even though its very early in the morning right now while I'm writing this I still mean everything I'm about to say. Ms. K, you are an amazing teacher, friend, colleague, anything. I know wherever you go, whatever you do you will shine & out-do everybody else you are sweet, witty, kind, considerate, u have amazing fashion sense, and an incredible teacher. I really hope you will come visit and watch me grow in my english skills as I go on in life ( or my soccer skills, haha.) I learned a lot of new literary terms, to be a better essay-writer, my vocabulary expanded since i had to read those books you assigned. I learned its never where you are, its who you are with :) you made this year incredible and I'm proud of you; whatever you want that to mean.
--I'll miss you! <3
xoxo chica!