PART I: ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LIFE

CHAPTER 1

I guess growing up in a mixed race family with strict rules was part of my upbringing….can't complain as I was still a middle school student trying to ensure that I got good grades, was well behaved, had a small social circle which also meant small number of friends. My mum was from an upper class mixed race family raised by a black father and white mother, while my dad was raised in a white upper class family. When you saw the way I looked, a lot of the resemblance was from both mum and dad. Although there were times I would hear from people who visited our family that I didn't look at all like my parents, others would say I looked a lot of like my father or like my mum. It didn't bother me much because I always knew that my mum and dad were loving, kind, friendly and the most supportive parents I ever had.

As a middle school student, I knew it was never going to be easy especially being a mixed colored student, but that wasn't going to interfere with my learning or making friends at all! As long as I studied well, listened to the teachers and didn't cause any trouble, and most importantly minded my own business, all was going to be just fine. Nevertheless, middle school had been fun starting at sixth grade then seventh grade and finally eighth grade, although I must say it was fun carefree in sixth grade, lots of in class activities, not that much homework (quite surprisingly) but tons of after school activities. I had to make sure that I was present in something which of course had to be decisions made by my parents. Nonetheless, they made good choices for me….I joined the debate club, journalism and my favorite two sports being badminton and archery club…they knew I was a sports person and enjoyed writing and actively participating in debates.

Moving on to seventh grade at the Chicago Middle School, the studies started becoming a bit challenging especially the math class…what was that subject again…mathematics 7? Algebra!!? No thanks!! And the sciences….but hey its middle school so why not enjoy it and the surprises that will be on the way….funny thing about seventh grade being bullied was no exception…guessing it was cause of being a mixed colored student…no surprises but as long as I didn't get into any trouble, grades were good that was good enough for my parents to never be called into school.

Apparently, that was not the case, on Friday afternoon, right as I was about to leave for my after school activities and was already late by the way, trouble came knocking on my door in the middle school corridor…..two body built guys, and one pretty blond haired girl…knew they were seventh grades as well but never my concern to know their names as they were never in my circle but I could see they were never the friendly type and they looked serious business and was not looking good at all…I told myself here we go.

Bully A: Where are you off to?

Diana (Me): None of your business

Bully A: Say what? (Interrupted by Bully B (female)

Bully B: what do we have here? (Takes my backpack, opens it and throws out everything on the floor)

Diana: Give me back my backpack…bitch!!

Bully B: What did you say to me? I am going to teach you a good lesson today

(Diana, almost in tears, not sure what do say….she wants to badly fight back but she knows that once she does, it will be the end and doomed with my parents….so plays it cool)

Bully B: Says to Bully A and Bully C, get her up against the lockers...take off her jacket….(slaps Diana back and forth on her face)

Diana trying to control her tempers…..but takes the beating and hitting

Diana: Listen guys, I ain't got any beef with you, so why don't we settle this in another way…I got cash, take my electronics whatever you find valuable in my backpack take, just let me go please please...(almost in tears).

Bully B: You called me a bitch….we gotta a score to settle….

As Bully B was about to hit, Diana took hold of her hand and shoved it aside, stood firm, pushed them aside saying "I am late for my activity practice session, now unless you wanna see me going to my activity session in bruises, when asked all I gotta do is show them your pictures, I mean you are on the school camera, your choice."

They let go of Diana, warning her 'we ain't done….we will find you!!'

I panicked, got my stuff, shoved them into my backpack and went straight for my debate club. I was already late twenty five minutes!!

(Knocking on the door) Mr. Johnson: Come in! Well, well, if it isn't Diana…you are late twenty five minutes…what happened?

Diana: I got delayed with some personal issues…(I couldn't and wasn't about to say what happened at the locker area, that I was bullied by two big tough guys and a blond girl…didn't even know they names….wasn't about to get myself into any trouble.

Diana: I am truly and very sorry Mr. Johnson, it will never happen again!!

Mr. Johnson: Better! First and last time being late, don't let it happen again, otherwise you will be dismissed from this club, understood?

Diana: Yes, Mr. Johnson.

Mr. Johnson: Take your seat! Alright, so where were we?

Jaime and Chris: What happened to you?

Diana: I don't want to talk about it…will explain later. To be honest, I was not ready or willing to talk or share any details of what happened. I know the entire incident was recorded on camera but whether the security caught it or not, only time will tell. For now, I was off the hook with them bullies but I knew it was not for long. My only way was to avoid them no matter what, in school and out of school which meant this weekend I was to find myself staying indoors at home, no outings, no meeting friends.

I just needed to figure out what I was going to do when Monday came around. I started thinking to myself 'should I tell my folks'? 'Should I tell Jaime and Chris'? 'Should I tell my teacher or my counselor'? In a confused state of mind, Diana decided to focus on her activity, get on the school bus and go home, and continue like nothing happened.

(After school activity class ended at 5:30 PM Friday afternoon)

(Students heading to the school bus going home)

Diana, Jaime and Chris: (on the school bus going home) (Jaime and Chris lived a block away from Diana's home; they have been friends since kindergarten.

Jaime: Girl, what happened to you today?

Chris: Yeah, what happened?

Diana: Nothing…

Jaime: You looked pretty roughed up when you walked into the classroom and you gonna tell me that NOTHING (voice getting loud on the bus) happened?

Chris: (just looking, no comment, motioning to Jaime to calm down) listen, you know we here for you Diana, so whenever you are ready to talk about it, let us know.

Jaime and Chris have been my best of best friends since kindergarten. When we first met in my neighborhood, it was actually quite a huge neighborhood, huge houses (very elegant and quite expensive, huge playgrounds, large yards that could host birthday parties and dates nights with friends. In the beginning it was just myself hanging out in the neighborhood, didn't have much friends, and if I did, they were not quite friendly (if you know what I mean), which didn't really bother me at all! Every year the neighborhood would have famous parties, dinner parties, wedding parties, birthday parties which my parents were never invited and neither was I…but we didn't care less, as it was less trouble and headaches for us, cause we already knew what them parties were ALL about!!

If it wasn't talking about 'marriages', 'what kind of jobs your husbands or wives did', 'schools kids went to', 'whose house is the biggest,' 'who can or has had the most parties and guests'…can you imagine going to every party and that's all you ever talked about? Seriously!! What kind of life is that? I am just glad my parents would always mind their own business and just enjoy chilling at home. We actually enjoyed missing out on the gossip. Funny thing about the people in this neighborhood, always in your business! Always wanting to know where you going, who you with, who coming to your house, what you be talking about, what did you eat….Good heavens…might as well call them CNN or BBC and have them build a station in our neighborhood so as they can advertise and dramatize and exaggerate the lives of the so called 'family neighborhood!!- Rich and famous'

It was kind of difficult trying to stay away from everyone in this neighborhood and I knew our family was ALWAYS on their radar, every single thing we did was on their watch. I sometimes told my parents, 'mum, dad, is this the only neighborhood available for us to live, aren't there any better places we can move to avoid all this drama?' In return I got the same response: (me mimicking my mum) 'honey, this is very close to your school and your father's company and its quite cheap and easy to get around'-that was the end of that topic, which I chose never to ask again, so just to live and move on and live this lifestyle. Although I have to admit they were right cause it was quite convenient going to school, getting to school early, getting home early, dad going to work early and being able to come back on time, security seemed good can't complain, supermarkets, malls, universities were also in plenty around where we lived….as I said couldn't complain at all!!

In the summer of 2007, (will never forget this day) a very hot summer weekend, I had been chilling at home, when I heard sounds of trucks driving into our neighborhood. At first thought it was construction going on but when I looked through the window it was four huge moving trucks. I told mum about it and she came to see as well saying 'looks like we got two new neighbors moving into our neighborhood.' I was like 'cool' with excitement.

It became a routine every day to look through the window and check out our new neighbors, they lived one block away from our house, would see people moving stuff in and out of the house, cleaning, washing, saw the parents but didn't see any kids which I found strange that new neighbors moving into such a large community neighborhood but no kids…hmmmm quite interesting..But then again I thought, maybe the parents don't have kids or maybe their kids are with friends and will come by later. I didn't want to think about it too much in case I was being too hopeful and then get disappointed, so decided to wait a few days and see what happens.

Three weeks later, I looked out the window to see the new neighbors and saw kids playing around their yards…the excitement that didn't fill my heart. I immediately ran out the door (without telling mum where I was going) went straight up to the first new neighbor, watched the little boy playing by himself, I then introduced myself

Diana: 'hi, I am Diana, your neighbor across the street, what's your name?'

Jaime: 'He answered Jaime.' 'I answered cool name.' I kind of sensed that Jaime didn't look like he was interested in playing or talking to me…. Then….another boy came along saying 'hi'

I looked and saw him standing right next to Jaime.

Diana: Hi, what's your name?

Chris: I am Chris, live next door.

Diana: shook hands and smiled….I then noticed Jaime looking at both of us. I then said do you guys wanna play some games?

Chris and Jaime: Yes

Diana: Let's play the Lego games or hide and seek, (saying with excitement).

At Jaime's place: We played games, had lots of fun, played with water, laughed, and it was the first time I saw Jaime laughing and smiling while we played games the entire afternoon.

At around 5pm, we all went home, but before that Jaime introduced us to his parents, and my they were friendly, kind and loving parents I had ever met. They wanted us to stay and have dinner but I told them I needed to get home soon as I had not told my parents anything of my whereabouts. Jaime's parents said "no problem, maybe next time we could meet your parents and have dinner together." "I said, cool, no problem," and rushed home, while Chris also rushed home. We each said goodbye and went home.

When I got home, I was filled with so much excitement, I knew I would get into trouble for not having told my parents where I had been, but to distract them from yelling and getting angry at me…I used my afternoon story and adventure as the best dinner story.

Diana: Mum, dad, guess what happened to me today? (Seeing my parents unhappy)

Mum and Dad: Where have you been? We have been looking all over for you, where did you go?

Diana: I was across the street at our new neighbor's house!! I made new friends called Jaime and Chris, their parents are so so cool, nice and super friendly (speaking with excitement, almost out of breathe). Continues speaking…First I met Jaime, he didn't seem to want to talk, then another kid came and introduced himself as Chris, they live just a block from where we live. We played Lego games, and hide and seek all afternoon. I met Jaime's parents and they were very kind to me, they wanted me to stay for dinner but I couldn't as I knew you would be worried about me since I left the house without telling you guys. I am sorry mum and dad.

Mum: That's alright, as long as you had a good day and you were safe, that's important.

Dad: Yeah, as long as you returned home safely, that's important, but next time make sure you let mum or I know where you are going so that it will be easy to find you or pick you up, alright?

Diana: Yes dad, I am sorry.

Mum and Dad: That's alright, (both give me a hug and I return to my seat to have dinner)

During dinner, mum and dad were asking me questions about my two new friends, schooling, parents job…I am like 'we didn't get that far, was too excited meeting new friends that I forgot to ask them that part….(mum and dad laughing saying, "no worries")

While having dinner I noticed my parents talking and discussing something but I couldn't hear clearly what was going on…I thought to myself must about work or other issues…I didn't pay too much attention, just continued eating my dinner, which was quite good, had spaghetti with meat, then had ice cream and fruits for dessert…hmmm so so good. After eating dinner at around 8:30 PM, said 'thank you to mum' then went to watch some TV, as I watched mum and dad clear the table. My bed time was usually 8:30 PM during school days but in the summer was 9:30 PM (great privilege, I would say). I enjoyed watching some great cartoon movies and funny comedy movies with both parents until I feel asleep and was tucked into bed.

The next day and for the reminder of the summer, I hung out with Jaime and Chris; we went from playing games to having sleepovers, to going camping together. Our families got to meet each other during dinner parties and weekends, which were always fun times. What was interesting to note was that it was always Jaime's parents, Chris's parents and my parents that would get together all the time, never saw other kids being invited. I took the initiative to ask both Jaime and Chris how come they never invited other kids, simple answer 'we don't like them.' Not sure what was going on, but didn't ask any more questions. As a five year old child, you get curious but for me having new friends and being able to hang out with them were all that mattered. I finally felt happier, joyful and grateful!! My parents also seemed quite happy being around Jaime's parents and Chris's parents, I am guessing they were simple people, not complicated, and didn't ask for much, very welcoming, caring and very friendly. I also noticed that their parents were very classy and elegant people always wore fine clothing and always enjoyed the finer things of life, which was the same for my parents but they always kept it very simple and low-key.

In comparison to the other neighbors in our neighborhood Jaime and Chris's parents were by far the most respected, friendly and loved families and I couldn't have asked for anything better than having Jaime and Chris as my new friends, which is something that all children love to have in their childhood lives. For me living in such an awesome neighborhood was a given, coming with everything a child ever dreamed of which of course it is always a child's dream to have friends whom they can play with, have great weekend sleepovers, do great activities together and even go to the same school. I never thought in my wildest dreams all of these wishes would come true for me at the age of five!!

As the summer came to an end, was time to start preparing for the new school year, new semester which would be Kindergarten. It had been my hope that I would see Jaime and Chris again but wasn't sure. I grew sad when the summer vacation ended and we had to part ways, and even though we didn't know whether we would see each other during the week, but I knew my weekends, our weekends would be exciting.

CHAPTER 2

Another school year, another semester, new classmates in August 2007, started my new school year life in Kindergarten. I was very excited preparing for my first day of school, thinking who my teachers were going to be, how my class was going to look like, who my classmates were going to be…and lots more going through my mind…but it was the excitement of just being in kindergarten that was the best! My parents drove me to school, and as we were driving they were asking lots of questions,

Mum: Are you excited to be going to kindergarten?' Excited about meeting new classmates?

Diana: Yes, can't wait to see my new classroom and meet my new classmates. A lot was also going on in my mind as well. I was also wondering what schools Jaime and Chris would be going to as they were also starting kindergarten as well. Would they like their new school, new classroom, new classmates, would they like the school food, would they be able to make new friends and enjoy their school year…..OK….I am only in kindergarten….let me take a deep breath….I am sure they will both be OK….we will meet during the weekend and exchange our stories about our first week of school, I thought to myself.

Dad: (Diana, can you hear us?) You will be great and enjoy it for sure.

Diana: Yes dad, as I looked out the window.

(Arriving at the entrance of the school gate)

My dad drove to the elementary school area, parked his car and got out of the car, opened the door for me, and I got out of the car and we all started walking towards the elementary school office. We went to the Chicago Elementary School office where we were met by the school principal who greeted us and welcomed us to the school. We signed in and were shown to my classroom. I was in KG1, and my teacher's name was Mrs. Anderson. The kindergarten area was BIG, lots of toys, BIG outdoor play area, BIG cafeteria, and it got even better when I saw my classroom!! Mrs. Anderson was standing at the classroom door waiting to greet all the parents and their children. She immediately recognized who I was….

Mrs. Anderson: Welcome, and who do we have here? Let me guess you must be Diana!

Diana: With my shyness I lifted my face and looked at her….how did she know my name? I asked her, how do you know my name?

Mrs. Anderson: We have your picture (looking at my parents).

Mum: The school asked for all the returning and new students' photos, that way would be easier to identify and recognize the students.

Diana: That's cool. You have a nice name Mrs. Anderson.

Mrs. Anderson: Thank you! You are very pretty. Please welcome to my class. Have a sit anywhere. We are just waiting for a few more parents then we shall begin our meeting.

Mum and Dad: Thank you. My parents walked into the classroom.

I was so excited and amazed by the size of the classroom, the pictures, the decorations, and the fact that every student had their own cupboards where they could put their backpacks…..so so cool!! I and my curiosity, walked around the classroom, saw that the classroom even had a toilet….it felt like I was at home. There were desks that were arranged in a way that students would sit together and a circle area for story time, the same one I had in my Preschool class. Finally, lots and lots of story books on the bookshelf…I have always loved stories and my parents would always read me bedtime stories that were exciting to listen, the story books had great pictures, and of course as always asked questions about the stories which I found the greatest part of listening to the story.

I returned to join my parents and sat next to my dad. A few minutes later other parents and their children started coming into the classroom. It was not until I recognized two of the parents; they were Jaime and Chris's parents. As a happy child with a smile so bright, told mum and dad pulling their arms:

Diana: Mum, Dad, guess who is my class? Look….

Mum and Dad: They look up and saw Jaime and Chris's parents. They greeted each other with hugs, smiling and laughing in knowing that their kids were going to be in the same school and same class as their daughter Diana. They saw Jaime and Chris and said hello to them as well.

Diana: Jaime, Chris, Yey! Are you guys also in Mrs. Anderson's class?

Jaime and Chris: Yes we are, you?

Diana: Yes I am also in Mrs. Anderson's class. This means we are going to be classmates for the entire year in Kindergarten.

Diana, Jaime and Chris: Yey! All three of us were jumping with joy, happiness and so much excitement.

I finally started believing that wishes and dreams can come true after all!! This was the best first day of my new school year and the best day of my life as a kindergarten student.

My parents were also quite happy and in some ways could sense they were relieved in knowing that Jaime and Chris were not only in the same school but in the same class as their daughter Diana. A lot of the worries they had were all washed away when they saw the joy, happiness and the three of us jumping up and down with excitement of the news.

At 8:00 AM, the class meeting started, Mrs. Anderson introduced herself, gave an introduction of kindergarten for the entire semester, gave us a tour of her classroom, and the school itself. I remember very well that as the tour was going on, Jaime, Chris and I was walking side by side, holding hands, laughing away, while our parents were taking videos and pictures. We returned back to the class and it was time for all the parents to leave so as we could begin our classes for the day.

Mum and Dad: Diana, bye, we shall see you later in the afternoon, be good, no fighting, listen to the teacher and have fun.

Diana: I ran to my parents, gave them a hug and a kiss and waved goodbye to them. Once I saw them leave, I returned to my desk and took out my books to begin the lesson.

Jaime, Chris and I were placed in the same sitting area with one other student whose name was Steven, quite a talkative one…we would just look at him talk and not say a word. He seemed to enjoy being the center of attention….I just shook my head and continued looking at Mrs. Anderson as she explained the agenda for today's class.

Our class schedule looked pretty simple, fun and interesting and of course there were rules, which weren't going to be a problem for me as rules in my family were very well observed. Snack time, lunch time and playtime I was always with Jaime and Chris and it was just so much fun and exciting, we would always do things together, even in class, reading time and when we went home we always left together. When I was not ready or prepared to go home, Jaime and Chris would always wait for me and even help me pack my stuff in my backpack and vice versa would do the same for them. It was actually a good feeling knowing that I had two good friends, almost like brothers I never had and this was something I told myself that I will cherish and hope that we shall continue to be in the same school and same class forever.

Our first day of school ended on a fine note, our parents came to pick us up, my dad drove us home and all the way home, I was just raving and going on about how Mrs. Anderson is a great teacher, caring, kind but also strict, how it was great having snack time and lunch time with Jaime and Chris, and enjoying nap time as well. The best part was the story time, Mrs. Anderson is a great story reader, she really knows how to tell a story and get everyone's attention. The excitement and laughter on my parents face was enough to let them feel happy and satisfied with the school and teacher but most importantly that their daughter Diana had a great first day of school as a kindergartener and they were even more confident that I would excel, enjoy and love the school year as a kindergartener.

For the rest of my school year in kindergarten, it was just play time, snack time, nap time, reading time, lunch time, of course did learn letters, numbers, drawing, building blocks, alphabets, and had birthday parties at school. Sadly since my birthday was in December almost around Christmas time, I was only able to celebrate it at home as school was on winter break. The best part of my birthday though were the gifts I got, and having Jaime and Chris over for my birthday and also getting their gifts…truly a memorable time. Of course, I enjoyed celebrating the birthdays of my classmates, even Jaime and Chris's birthdays were celebrated at school.

Kindergarten ended and then was first grade, then second grade and its funny, was very worried that I would be in different classes from Jaime and Chris, but we were placed together in the same class both first and second grade, almost felt like Christmas came early. My parents were still driving and picking me up from school, there were times I would go with Jaime or Chris as my parents had something to do which wasn't bad cause we all knew each other, same school, same grade and same classroom and lived in the same neighborhood so was quite convenient. Whenever, I went back home from school with either Jaime or Chris, was always at either of their places doing homework, watching television, eating snacks or playing games until mum or dad came to pick me up. My parents knew that I loved hanging out with Jaime and Chris and so did Jaime and Chris's parents as we all had a great relationship. Although, there were times at school and at home we did get into trouble which was not good at all, but what was so funny about it, was that every time we got into trouble in school, we somehow stood up for each other, I mean after all we were great buddies and that is what buddies do right?

I remember this one incident in second grade our classroom teacher was Mrs. McDonald, and she was a no nonsense teacher, very strict and also very picky, but of course a great teacher. She just couldn't handle mischievous children, so whenever her students misbehaved, it was either 'time out-no recess, sit in the corner by yourself or 'see the counselor or principal' if the matter was serious that would be the time your parents were called. Anyway, so Jaime, Chris and I are out in the playground during morning recess, and we were playing, running around having fun as you know that is what we do at this age. All over sudden out of nowhere come these three boys, same height, faces looked like watermelon, all puffed up, wore blue jeans, and t-shirts and they were not friendly material by the looks of their faces. So I started making fun of them mimicking the way their stood, hands folded like bodyguards, rough faces, eyes staring back at us and without thinking I said:

Diana: What's up guys? Looking for someone?

The three boys start walking towards me, next thing I found myself on the ground looking right at them. I managed to get up as I had only fallen on the sand, ran toward the guy who pushed me and I pushed him down on the ground as well. I stood looking at him straight in the face with anger!!

One of the boys pushed Jaime and Chris on the ground. This time, I was like:

Diana: Stop pushing them, leave them alone!!

One of the boys: This is our playground, so leave we wanna play here!!

Diana: This isn't your playground, doesn't have your name on it, does it?

The second boy: So? We want to play on this playground, so (pushes me) leave!!

The next thing I notice, the third boy goes towards Jaime and Chris and pushes them off the playground and they fell on the ground injuring their elbow. I walked up to the third boy and slapped him, he started crying and I just folded my hands and stood there.

Diana: Jaime, Chris, are you guys OK?

Jaime and Chris: We are OK, but our elbows hurt.

Just when I was about to open my mouth, Mrs. McDonalds showed up, pulled us apart, then had us stand aside and told us to head to her classroom while recess was still going on. The looks on Mrs. McDonalds face scared me shitless as I was already sure that there was no way I was going to get away from what happened on the playground. It was either, no recess, no more play times, or the principal's office, and parents were going to be called. To be quite honest I was ready because I did what I thought was right, defended my two buddies Jaime and Chris from getting hurt. OK I did push and slap but that was all self-defense as they would call it. Once we got into the classroom, the conversation went down as this:

Mrs. McDonald: I leave you guys out in the playground and all you do is just cause trouble. So each and every one of you will tell us exactly what happened, nothing but the truth, understood?

(The three boys' classroom teachers were also present).

The three boys, Jaime, Chris, and I: (heads looking down scared) Yes, Ms. McDonalds

Jaime: Mrs. McDonalds, Chris, Diana and I were playing in the playground at the ring circle area. We were having fun minding our own business, when these boys came, stood in front of us, with their hands folded. Diana started mimicking them, and asked them if they were looking for someone, and then they pushed Diana to the ground, Diana pushed the guy who pushed her on the ground, she was only defending herself.

Chris: Yes, then the other two boys came and pushed Jaime and I on the ground

(Interruption from one of the boys) That's not true

Mrs. McDonald: Hush young man, do not interrupt while they are speaking, you will have your turn. Continue…..

Chris: Diana told them to stop pushing them and to leave us alone.

Jaime: That's when one of the boys started asking us to leave the playground because they wanted to play, saying that this is their playground.

Diana: I said "This isn't your playground, doesn't have your name on it, does it?" He said (pointing at the boy) "So? We want to play on this playground, so (pushes me) leave!!" Then the third boy goes towards Jaime and Chris and pushes them off the playground and they fell on the ground injuring their elbow. I walked up to the third boy and slapped him, he started crying and I just folded my hands and stood there.

Chris and Jaime: That is what happened.

Mrs. McDonalds: Are you both hurt?

Chris and Jaime: Just our elbows hurt, but we are OK.

Mrs. McDonald: OK now you tell your side of the story.

One of the boys: We wanted to play on this playground and asked them to leave as we had seen them playing on the playground for a long time, so we thought it was our turn. Diana pushed me and my friends to the ground, then slapped me on my face (ouch it still hurts) and I started crying, that's when you came Mrs. McDonalds.

Mrs. McDonalds: OK so I have heard your stories, now you three boys and Diana are wrong. You three boys, firstly is this your playground? Does it have your name?

Three boys: No, Mrs. McDonalds

Mrs. McDonalds: So what makes you think that you can go and tell them to get off the playground because you want to play and that it is your playground? We learn to share or take turns, right? Also you know it is not right to push your schoolmates or classmates, right?

Three boys: Yes, Mrs. McDonalds, but Diana also pushed us and slapped me (speaking loudly)

Mrs. McDonalds: I know, I will get to her in a minute, (looking at me) Think about what you will have to say to Chris and Jaime and Diana once I finish talking to Diana.

Mrs. McDonalds: Diana, you know pushing, slapping in school is behavior that is not acceptable

Diana: (interrupting Mrs. McDonalds) I know, but I was only helping or saving Chris and Jaime from these three boys and I didn't like the way they pushed me nor Chris and Jaime (speaking in tears).

Mrs. McDonalds: Don't interrupt me… let me finish….. You know this behavior is not acceptable at school and I will have to report to your parents about what you did in school today.

I looked at Mrs. McDonalds and was about to open my mouth and throw a tantrum at her, but for some reason something stopped my mouth from opening and pushed me back from speaking. No matter what I tried, my mouth would not speak, so I didn't say anything. I continued putting my head down, not allowing any tears to fall from my eyes.

Mrs. McDonalds: You three boys are to apologize to Chris, Jaime and Diana and head on to your class with your teachers. Your teachers will deal with you in class.

Mrs. McDonalds: Chris, Jaime, you didn't do anything wrong and I thank you for being honest with me. Diana you will apologize to these three boys and I will deal with you later in class, and will also be speaking to your parents on this later today.

Diana: I am sorry for pushing and slapping you, it will not happen again (shook hands and went off to class with Mrs. McDonalds).

Three boys: I am sorry for pushing you Chris, Jaime and Diana. It will not happen again (shook hands and went off to class with their classroom teachers).

Walking back to class, Mrs. McDonalds was ahead of us, walking at quite a quick speed as class was about to begin. Chris was on my left, Jaime was on my right, I was in the middle, they were telling me all will be OK, as they could see tears were about to fall on my face. I didn't know what else I could have said to them, but in my heart was truly grateful that they defended and told the story to Mrs. McDonalds exactly as it had happened, they didn't add nor leave out any information and to me that was more than enough of what friends should do for one another. Although, on my part it was wrong pushing and slapping one of them boys, but what was I to do, I couldn't see my two buddies get pushed around, pushed to the ground like they were nothing, they were my buddies and I had to stand up for them. The way I stood up for them, they stood up for me….I smiled looking at both Chris and Jaime as we were heading back to class and I told myself, everything will be OK. I know Mrs. McDonalds will tell my parents what happened including the slapping and pushing but I will also tell my side of the story when I get home after school. It was my hope that my parents will listen, trust and believe in my side of the story.

Once back in class, I sat on my chair and spent the rest of day in silence, didn't even speak in the other classes or in Mrs. McDonalds class, I only spoke to Jaime and Chris until it was time to head home. At the end of the school day as we packed our stuff prepared to go home, Mrs. McDonalds calls me to her desk.

Mrs. McDonalds: Are your parents coming to pick you up today?

Diana: No, they aren't. I am going home with Jaime.

Mrs. McDonalds: I have already spoken to your parents about what happened today during recess, I thought they would be coming to pick you up so as we could talk about it in details, but since they aren't, they will speak to you about it when you get home.

Diana: Yes, Mrs. McDonalds. Goodbye Mrs. McDonalds

Mrs. McDonalds: Bye bye Diana

Jaime and Chris's mum were waiting in their cars for both Jaime and Chris. I was going home with Jaime as mum and dad were unable to pick me up from school today.

Jaime's mum: Hello Diana

Diana: Hello Mrs. Anders. How are you?

Mrs. Anders: I am doing well, you? (Opens the door of the car for both kids to enter the car)

Diana: I am good, thank you.

(Mrs. Anders starts the car, turns out of the parking lot and drives out of the school gate).

Mrs. Anders: How was school today?

Jaime: It was good but got into a little trouble today.

Mrs. Anders: Oh, what happened?

Jaime repeats the entire story exactly as it happened on the playground and what happened with Mrs. McDonalds. Diana carefully listens but was almost in tears, trying not to cry.

Mrs. Anders: Oh dear, Diana are you alright?

Diana: I am Mrs. Anders thank you! I slapped and pushed one of the students, I know it was wrong but I was only helping Jaime and Chris, those three boys were going to do something bad to Chris and Jaime and I couldn't let it happen.

Mrs. Anders: Diana, what you did was very brave of you today, saving your friends Jaime and Chris, but it is also not good behavior to slap and push a person, right?

Diana: Yes, I did apologize, but my concern is what my parents will say or do to me when I get home because they are very strict especially when it comes to my studies and what I do in school.

Mrs. Anders: Your parents will be upset because you slapped and pushed a student, but on the other hand they probably will understand that what you did was out of defense, helping and saving Jaime and Chris. Do you want Jaime and Chris to come with you so as they can help tell your parents what happened?

Diana: No, it is OK. I think if I tell them the exact truth what happened and what I did, they will understand. Thank you Mrs. Anders, you are very nice!

Mrs. Anders: No problem.

Mrs. Anders' car drives into our neighborhood. I get dropped right outside my gate. I wave at Jaime and Mrs. Anders and walk to my gate of my home.

I opened the door of my home and when I walked in, I saw my mum and dad sitting on the sofa, almost as if they were waiting for my arrival. I automatically knew that Mrs. McDonalds had spoken to my parents and now it was just a moment of hearing what my parents were going to say or do to me. I was quite terrified especially of my dad as once he gets mad that's it…its go to your bedroom, no lunch, no dinner and I get grounded for a week.

However, on this particular day, none of that happened. I took off my shoes, placed them in the shoe rack, took off my backpack and placed it in my bedroom, washed my hands and went back to the living room where my parents were both seated. A few minutes later…

Dad: How was school Diana?

Mum: Did you enjoy your day?

Diana: It was good but got into trouble (both parents looked at me instantly) shaking in fear.

Dad: Yes, your teacher Mrs. McDonalds called your mother and told her what happened at the school playground even mentioned Jaime and Chris's name.

Mum: When your teacher called, your father was also at home so I put the phone on speaker so that we could both hear the conversation.

Dad and mum: We heard the teacher's version, now we want to hear your version of what happened.

My face was in utter shock as that was not what I was expecting from my parents. I stood there looking at them like I had heard wrongly what they said. Normally, I would have expected my parents especially my dad to be yelling, saying that 'I was wrong, I sent you to school to study, not to cause trouble, look what you have done' then in the end getting grounded for a week etc….but no that didn't happen at all. I smiled inside my heart, build up my courage, sat on the sofa next to my parents and told the entire story from A to Z what happened. I even told them that Jaime and Chris were there when all this happened and they can ask them as well.

Dad: When Mrs. McDonalds called and reported what you did, I was in shock and thought to myself, my baby girl Diana, fighting in school, that can't be possible.

Mum: I also told your father the same thing and said to Mrs. McDonalds we will talk to you once you get back from school, as we would want to hear your version of the story.

Dad: Slapping and pushing your schoolmate is not good behavior which you do know, right Diana?

Diana: Yes, I know dad, but….

Dad: But, I understand you were trying to help and save your buddies Chris and Jaime whom you did a great job no doubt because I can only image things would have gotten worse if they were bullied and beaten.

Mum: Yeah, you did a good job saving them, but next time, when something like that ever happens, call the teacher and let the teacher handle it, OK Diana? (Mum kisses me on my head)

Dad: Yes, if you are ever caught or if anyone tries to bully you, Jaime and Chris, run and call the teacher for help, OK?

Diana: Yes, mum and dad. Thank you so much for believing in me and believing in my story. Love you mum and dad.

Dad and mum: Love you too Diana.

I am going to take a bath, then do my homework. As I was walking to my room, I turned around and looked at both my parents, I felt so relieved, so happy with how the situation turned out in the end. I had been quite scared with crazy thoughts of what I would be going through, getting grounded or being beaten etc….but that didn't happen and I am so grateful that I have such wonderful parents, not only do they believe in me, but also teach, guide and support me in everything that I do and this is such a wonderful blessing for a child to have in a family.

After this incident, I told myself, I have nothing to fear, nothing to worry about. I have two cool buddies Jaime and Chris, their parents like me and have accepted me to be their sons' friend. I have two wonderful parents who I have come to love, respect, and adore, parents who have been and will always be there for me in my life. Having these special people in life, I felt that my life would start to be even more colorful, beautiful, enriching, and full of joy and happiness a child could ever want in this whole wide world.

My second grade life story ended on that note and for the reminder of the year, focusing on my studies, spending most of my time with Chris and Jaime, having sleepovers, weekend camps, eating lunch together, doing homework together were the fun times I had in second grade. The subjects we were learning were not difficult (math, science, computer, PE, art, music, and language arts), and I did quite well both first and second semester taking home a report card that put smiles on my parents faces, but to me that was my gift to them for their full love and support and for being the best and most wonderful parents.

Jaime and Chris also did well in second grade and I was very happy for them. It's funny, when we got our school report cards; we exchanged and saw each other's report cards and scores which were pretty much the same. We would laugh; jump up and down of the excitement of finishing second grade with great scores. My only concern was next school year, third grade-would we be in the same classroom?

Diana: I hope we shall be in the same classroom in third grade next year.

Jaime: Me too, it has been a great three years being in the same class, living in the same neighborhood, our parents know each other and we have become great friends.

Chris: Me too, I have enjoyed and gotten used to us three doing pretty much everything together in class, and even helping each other with the homework.

Diana: I know, so we will see when we come back in the fall. So what are your plans for the summer?

Jaime: I am not sure, I know both my parents have to work. They haven't really spoken about what will happen this summer. In the past we would visit my grandparents and relatives in other States, but not sure what's going this year.

Diana: What about you Chris?

Chris: I overheard my parents talking about visiting our relatives in Europe?

Diana and Jaime: Europe? You got family in Europe?

Chris: Yes, my uncles and aunties from my mother's side live in Europe.

Diana and Jaime: That's cool.

Jaime: What about you Diana, any plans for the summer?

Diana: Not sure…..my parents haven't planned anything. A lot has to do with my dad's job if he will get time off. My mum likes it when we travel together as a family, so we shall see what happens. I know we visited our relatives in different States in the past, but not sure if that will happen this summer. To be honest, I would rather stay here and just hang out, go swimming, camping, join some activities but we'll see.

Jaime: Well let us know what you end up doing.

Chris: Yes, let us know.

Diana: Cool. Well you guys have a great summer and if you are around, we can have fun in our neighborhood.

Jaime and Chris: Sure, no problem. Have a good summer and say hello to your parents.

Diana: Thanks, you too.

We each went to our homes, and officially started our summer holiday, two months of heat and hot sun, but for now having to know that as of Monday I didn't need to wake up early to go to school was already a blessing and the true start of my summer holiday.

CHAPTER 3

It had been three years since I joined Chicago Elementary school as a Kindergartener. In the fall of August 2010, I walked into school starting my new school year as a third grader; this was going to be a totally different lifestyle from kindergarten to grade 2, new teacher, different subjects, more homework, and would be doing after school activities for the first time. Of course the usual play times, lunch times and snack times were still inclusive but the times were different, no more nap times (well that ended after kindergarten). My only concern was finding out whom my new classmates and classroom teacher was going to be…..was super anxious, as I had hoped that I would see Jaime and Chris as well.

It didn't take long for that to happen as when I walked into my classroom, I saw Jaime and Chris in my classroom; they had actually been waiting for me as well. We all jumped with excitement and joy when we found out that we were going to be in the same grade classroom for another year, was actually the best news and great way to start the school year.

Jaime and Chris: Diana...Yey!!!!

Diana: Jaime and Chris….Yey!!! Are you guys also in this classroom?

Jaime and Chris: Yup!! We get to be in the same classroom for the rest of the school year.

Diana: This is so cool…my parents are going to be so so excited when I tell them tonight. They were quite worried about whether I would settle well and do well in a new class without Jaime and Chris.

Jaime and Chris: Our parents as well.

Chris: My parents had been worried about who my classmates were going to be, kept on saying "I do hope Jaime and Diana will also be in your class". I told them not to worry that everything will be OK and if we don't get to be in the same classroom; we are still in the same school, same grade, so we shall get to see each other every day.

Jaime: Yeah, my parents were also worried as well, but will not be anymore once I tell them this great news.

Jaime, Chris and I had become very good friends since kindergarten and over the years and I had always felt that they were the brothers I never had, even though they were older than me by a few months but that didn't matter. The fact that we have been able to get along so well from the moment we met, being there for each other, helping each other says a lot about our friendship and I knew this was going to be one of the best friendships I will have ever have in my life.

Diana: Do you guys know who will be our new third grade teacher? What subjects are we learning?

Jaime: I saw the label outside the classroom saying Mrs. Cooper.

Diana: There was a lady standing outside the classroom, welcoming us and our parents as I walked into the classroom. Is that her?

Chris: Yes, that's her.

Diana: Oops, I just passed her and walked into the classroom and didn't even say hello. I thought she was a mum of one of our classmates (good grief, breathing heavily)….school hasn't yet started and I am already causing trouble.

Jaime: No worries Diana, you didn't do anything wrong, and besides you didn't know that she was our classroom teacher.

Diana: Yeah, I am sure will be OK.

Chris: Oh yeah, we are pretty much (interruption from another student)...

Student A: Hi, I am Carl, nice to meet you! What are your names?

Jaime, Chris, and Diana: I am Diana, I am Jaime and I am Chris, nice to meet you Carl.

Chris: (continues from the previous conversation, while Carl takes a seat next to Jaime) Yeah, so as I was saying, I think the subjects we are going to learn are math, language arts, science, physical education, computer, music, art and will get to choose a foreign language. It is pretty much like in grade 2, but this year we are learning science and a foreign language. I think there is a choice of Spanish and French.

Jaime: Can we take both?

Chris: I don't think so because both languages are taught at the same time, so while you are learning Spanish, the others are learning French. What will you choose?

Diana: I will go with Spanish.

Jaime: I will also take Spanish

Chris: I will also choose Spanish. Carl what language will you choose?

Carl: I am not sure, will have to speak to my parents and see what they say and then decide.

Chris: Well, which language do you like?

Carl: I like Spanish and want to learn it, but not sure if my parents will allow me to choose Spanish. My mum has always liked French, and she has quite a few relatives who are French speaking…so we'll see.

(Classroom teacher walks into the classroom….classes start around 8 AM)

As the bell rang, we began to gather ourselves and go towards our seating area; I noticed that on each desk there was a name tag on it, which was your assigned seat. My desk was to the right side of the classroom near the window and there were four others who were assigned to my seating area as well, and guess whom? Yup, Jaime, Chris and Carl and Cynthia and I...Five of us in one seating area….couldn't have asked for anything better.

So we sat in our seats and our classroom teacher begun the class. Our classroom teacher was Mrs. Cooper, young pretty lady, seemed to be in her late thirties, from her looks and the way she was talking she seemed quite nice and gentle. She introduced herself, gave us a tour of her classroom, and I have to say in comparison to my previous classes, Mrs. Cooper's class was huge, well the class size was larger, in counting we were about twenty five students in our class, quite a large number. I liked her class a lot as it was very attractively decorated with pictures of us, plants, and plastic boxes with our names on it and materials in each box, reading circle area with a carpet where we would seat for story reading time, huge cushions which could be used for sitting, relaxing when we had quiet time and for reading, a book shelve with lots and I mean lots of reading books, and three desktop computers. On the board was a list of all the subjects written that we would be learning, in front of the board was a smart board and Mrs. Cooper's desk was on the right side of the classroom, her desk would be the first thing you would see directly in front of you when you entered her classroom. The classroom was fully carpeted which made it quite comfortable to walk on especially without your shoes which I truly loved as I had a habit of walking barefoot a lot at home and in school. It is funny because I sometimes never realized that I am walking barefoot until I start to feel the cold that's when I realize I am not walking on a carper anymore but on tiles or cold hard cement.

Oh and something else that I found interesting in Mrs. Cooper's class was that on the wall, she not only had our pictures which was a way of recognizing each other, but there was also a chart with our names on it...and at first I just thought it was an ordinary chart which we would have to fill in information but as I looked closer I saw that it was written "Star Chart". That caught my immediate attention and as I know myself getting curious was a habit by nature. So I raised my hand….

Mrs. Cooper: Yes, Diana, how can I help you?

Diana: I see on the wall you prepared a chart with all our names and on the top it says "Start Chart", what does that mean?

Mrs. Cooper: Let me finish talking about the subjects, then will talk about that in just a few minutes, OK Diana?

Diana: Yes, Mrs. Cooper

Mrs. Cooper had been giving us a tour of our classroom and explaining about the subjects we shall be learning in third grade including the daily schedule and routines of the day. Our seating assignments were assigned for the year, (I was smiling in my heart, going Christmas came early) however, if it need be would be changed depending on the situation. This brings the next topic she talked about which were the class rules, this was one topic that I was for sure would be interesting and after what I went through in grade 2, not sure I would want to get myself into any trouble this year. Mrs. Cooper had prepared a set of class rules which she presented on the smart board.

Mrs. Cooper: Now, let's talk about the classroom rules which are in connection to the question Diana had asked earlier about the "Star Chart". So why do we have classroom rules? Can anyone answer this question?

(Cynthia raises her hand), Mrs. Cooper: Yes Cynthia

Cynthia: To avoid bad behaviors

Mrs. Cooper: Correct, anyone else?

(Jaime raises his hand), Mrs. Cooper: Yes Jaime

Jaime: For security and safety reason

(Carl raises his hand), Mrs. Cooper: Yes Carl

Carl: To maintain order so that students are able to focus on their learning

Mrs. Cooper: That is correct, great job Cynthia, Jaime and Carl, well done. As you have heard, it is important that we have classroom rules in order to maintain discipline, order and students are able to focus on their learning.

Mrs. Cooper: As you can see I have prepared some classroom rules which I will read them out to you (Mrs. Cooper begun reading the rules). We have about thirty six classroom rules.

The entire class: Wow, those are a lot of classroom rules.

Different voices speaking: Those are too many, are we expected to remember all of them? How can we remember all of them? What will happen if we forget one of them or any of the classroom rules? And here I was thinking and saying to myself that third grade was going to be so cool, now I am thinking more like a nightmare in hell. I turned around and looked at Jaime and Chris, their reaction, eyes wide open, shrugging their shoulders, shaking their heads not sure what exactly was going on...

Mrs. Cooper: Quiet everyone, calm down, let me finish reading and explaining the classroom rules then we shall do our first activity in connection to the "Star Chart".

After hearing what Mrs. Cooper said, thoughts started racing in mind, especially when she mentioned "activity" but I told myself, Diana, "calm down, can't be that bad and besides this is not your home, so rules are rules and must be followed."

As I am listening to her read and she explains the classroom rules which were quite a lot of them:

Ask questions Respect and listen to your classmates Respect and listen to your teacher Raise your hand to speak Be prepared for class Be quiet when the teacher is talking Be quiet when classmates are talking Share new ideas Keep your hands to yourself Respect other's property Keep your workspace tidy Be kind Always do your best Walk, don't run, in the hallways Be a good friend Be on time Share with others Use equipment properly Help keep the classroom tidy Listen to all the teachers Obey all school rules Finish your homework on time Be respectful of classmates who are working Have a good attitude Use positive language Line up neatly and quietly Stay in your seat Listen with your ears and your eyes Contribute to discussions Be respectful of other's ideas Follow the teacher's directions the first time they are given Cooperate with your classmates Be creative Be honest Use technology appropriately Be proud of your work.

After Mrs. Cooper finished reading the last classroom rules, the whole class went, wow, and we all started laughing, almost like it was a relief even Mrs. Cooper herself started laughing. I could see a lot of my students were already sweating including me, and were not sure what was the next move or statement to be said by Mrs. Cooper.

In my mind with a prayer was like 'here we go, may we all be saved'.

Mrs. Cooper: Right, now that I have read all thirty six of the classroom rules, we are now going to do two to two activities.

Activity 1: From these thirty six classroom rules, we are going to select the ten MOST IMPORTANT rules that apply to our classroom and are rules that MUST be followed every day in our class. If you have other classroom rules you wish to add to your list do write them down and shall be shared in the class.

Activity 2: Thirty six rules are way too many (everybody's nodding their faces in agreement with Mrs. Cooper-what was so funny was watching how in sync their nodding was), so we are going to divide these classroom rules into two categories. The first category will be called "The Ten MOST IMPORTANT Classroom Rules" and the second category will be called "Weekly Star Awards" these awards will be given to students who do well or do something nice or helpful to or for other students in their classroom. For example 'being kind, or sharing with your classmates, or being creative in your work". I will decide which students get the "Weekly Star Awards" and the students' will get a star and a certificate. The star will be placed next to your name under which category of the award you received on the "Star Chart" This is what the "Star Chart" will be used for in our classroom, so it is not just about following the classroom rules, but also learning how to be a loving, caring, independent, and organized student.

Mrs. Cooper: Any questions?

(Susan raises her hand), Mrs. Cooper: Yes Susan

Susan: For the first activity, are we working as a class or in our seated groups?

Mrs. Cooper: Good question Susan. You will all work in your seated groups; each table will receive a copy of the thirty six classroom rules and two different color markers blue and green. We will first identify the top ten most important rules which are to be circled using the blue marker. You can also add other classroom rules, not mentioned. Once we have completed that task, each group will present their classroom rules, and then we shall make a classroom final decision on the classroom rules.

Mrs. Cooper: Any questions? If you have understood activity 1, raise your hands.

The entire class raised their hands. I found activity 1 as Mrs. Cooper explained to be quite straight forward….my ONLY concern was the entire class coming up with ten classroom rules we could all agree on….this was going to be interesting.

Mrs. Cooper handed to each table a copy of the thirty six classroom rules, two markers colored blue and green. We were given ten minutes to work on the task.

Jaime: These are quite a lot of rules….

Carl: For sure.

Diana: So how do we decide which ones will or are to be the top ten most important classroom rules?

Cynthia: I have an idea, let's select the classroom rules, based on what we do or need to do daily in our classroom, or rules that we also have at home…does that make sense?

Chris: It does, but some of the rules we have at home can't be applied at school, like 'be creative' or 'cooperate with your classmates'

Cynthia: So we start by selecting the easy rules.

Jaime, Chris, and Carl, Diana: That's a great idea. (We get to work)

We look at the rules, I take on the lead by reading each rule again and then we decide as a group if this will be a classroom rule and its importance. We used blue to circle the rules. At the end we choose the following top "Ten Most Important Classroom Rules:

Ask questions Respect and listen to your classmates and teacher Raise your hand to speak Be prepared for class Be quiet when the teacher and your classmates are talking Respect other's property Keep your workspace and classroom tidy Walk, don't run, in the hallways Be on time Use equipment properly Use positive language which also includes no cursing Line up neatly and quietly Stay in your seat Listen with your ears and your eyes Follow the teacher's directions the first time they are given

Cynthia: Diana, can you present our rules to the class?

Diana: Sure!

When our group was finished, we put it in the middle of our table and sat back on our seats. Mrs. Cooper had noticed that we were finished. She came over our table and checked, noticing that we had circled fifteen rules.

Mrs. Cooper: I see you circled fifteen rules, any reason?

Chris: We felt that some of the rules, like for example number 15 'follow the teacher's directions the first time they are given' are also a classroom rule because; if you don't follow the instructions or directions given you have disobeyed by not listening to the teacher.

Carl: Also number 13 'stay in your seat', this is an important rule because if the teacher is trying to teach or is working with students on an assignment or question and students are walking around in the classroom, the class becomes disorganized and noisy, and this goes back to rule number 15 which states 'following the teacher's instructions when given', so if Mrs. Cooper has asked students to work on their assignment or on a question, while she is doing something else or working with a student quietly and she sees students talking and moving around without permission they have disobeyed the classroom rules.

Mrs. Cooper: Well done, that is correct! It seems that it will be difficult to narrow the top ten most important classroom rules. We may have to add more to the list.

Cynthia, Jaime, Diana, Carl and Chris: (all smiling very pleased with their results) thank you Mrs. Cooper.

Mrs. Cooper: Raise your hands if you have finished activity 1? (Checking around), OK great, we have all finished. Alright, now each group will choose one person to present their rules. Which group would like to go first?

Although, I had raised my hand to present for our group, the other students were faster than me, almost like 'a raising arm competition event'. I said no problem if we were the last.

The other groups presented their classroom rules and as I was listening to their presentations, a lot of the groups had similar classroom rules like our group, so I wasn't feeling bad that we had more than ten classroom rules, some of the other groups had more than fifteen classroom rules circled.

Finally, came to our group, I took the paper and with the help of Jaime and Chris holding the paper, I presented the classroom rules our group circled, including the ones we combined giving reasons. Although, I had agreed to do the presentation for our group, to be honest, I was very nervous speaking in front of the entire class, as this was the first time I ever did such a presentation, but with the support of my group, I spoke from start to finish with confidence and enjoyed it. When we finished, the class clapped for our group, as we also did when the other groups had also finished their presentations.

Mrs. Cooper: Well done everyone, I loved your presentations!! I also noticed that each group had circled similar classroom rules. So now let's get to the final piece of this activity. We are going to select top 10 most important classroom rules; we can make exceptions and add three to four more on the list.

Mrs. Cooper: As you can see I have the thirty six classroom rules on the smart board. Each group member will choose three of their top most important classroom rules and share them with the class. If the classroom rule has been mentioned, do not repeat it, give three others. Does anyone have any questions?

Group 1-Group 4: Each member from each group presented their top three most important classroom rules. I was a bit worried that the other groups will present all the classroom rules, and we shall have nothing to present. Luckily, there were still some classroom rules not presented.

(Jaime motions to Carl) Jaime: Carl, can you present for our group? Diana has already put a check on the classroom rules the other groups have presented, you just have to present the top three which have not been presented.

Carl: Sure, no problem.

Mrs. Cooper: Last but not least Diana' group, who is presenting?

Jaime: Carl will be presenting for our group.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright Carl, you are up…..

Carl: The top three most important rules we have put together are:

Keep your workspace and classroom tidy Use positive language which also includes no cursing Follow the teacher's directions the first time they are given

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, well done, so we now have a total of fifteen classroom rules, which can we all agree should be our classroom rules? Can we all agree on these classroom rules?

All students: Yes, Mrs. Cooper

Mrs. Cooper: Excellent, now let me read the final fifteen classroom rules for our grade 3 class for the school year. She reads the list to the class, and the classroom rules are confirmed. She continues to mention that these rules will be posted on the classroom board so that everyone can see them, read and remember them. Every student is expected to understand and follow the classroom rules, every day, there will be no exceptions.

Mrs. Cooper: Does anyone have any questions? If not, now let's move on to the next activity.

As today was the first day of school, we spent the entire class day in our main classroom, but as of tomorrow, we shall begin the new schedule and the learning of the new subjects.

Mrs. Cooper: Now the second activity is about the "Weekly Star Awards". You will continue working in your groups for this activity. Go back to the thirty six classroom rules that we talked about earlier. You are to select 10 different rules that will be used as categories to award students the Weekly Star Awards". These awards will be given to students who do well or do something nice or helpful to or for other students in their classroom. For example 'being kind, or sharing with your classmates, or being creative in your work". I will decide which students get the "Weekly Star Awards" and the students' will get a star and a certificate.

Mrs. Cooper: You are to use a different marker pen, and on your table you will see there is a white large piece of paper which you will use to write these categories. The title is "Weekly Star Awards". Remember you are choosing ONLY ten from the list. You will have ten minutes for this activity.

The first activity took the entire morning, once were done with that, we had snack time and recess time, where we went to the playground.

Jaime, Chris and I went to the playground and we started chatting about the morning class.

Jaime: What do you guys think of our classroom teacher Mrs. Cooper?

Diana: I think she is nice, friendly and kind teacher. She smiles a lot.

Chris: I also think she is a nice person. What do you think Jaime?

Jaime: She cool and friendly. I think we will have a good year in grade 3.

Chris and Diana: We think so too.

Diana: I liked out morning class, relaxing, no pressure, good way to start the semester I thought.

Jaime: I think the same too.

(They start walking back to their classroom after morning recess) We enter into our classroom, put our snack box back into our backpack and get back to our seats.

Diana: Cynthia and Carl, where were you guys for the morning recess?

Cynthia: I was playing on the other side of the playground with Jennifer and Sophia.

Carl: I was hanging out with Ryan.

Diana: Cool.

(All students back from recess, getting settled in their seats).

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, welcome back everyone, hope you enjoyed your morning recess and got to go to the playground for a bit. So we are now going to continue working on our second activity. I will repeat the activity in case we may have forgotten:

(Repeating) Mrs. Cooper: Now the second activity is about the "Weekly Star Awards". You will continue working in your groups for this activity. Go back to the thirty six classroom rules that we talked about earlier. You are to select 10 different rules that will be used as categories to award students the Weekly Star Awards". These awards will be given to students who do well or do something nice or helpful to or for other students in their classroom. For example 'being kind, or sharing with your classmates, or being creative in your work". I will decide which students get the "Weekly Star Awards" and the students' will get a star and a certificate.

(Repeating) Mrs. Cooper: You are to use a different marker pen, and on your table you will see there is a white large piece of paper which you will use to write these rules. The title is "Weekly Star Awards". Remember you are choosing ONLY ten from the list. You will have ten minutes for this activity.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, you may begin, (walking around to see how each group is doing in their activity.

CHAPTER 4

As Mrs. Cooper was walking around the desk, everyone was working very diligently, discussing (was a little too loud though) but seemed everyone was enjoying the discussion.

As for our group:

Carl: So guys we have to select the categories that will be used to award the "Weekly Star Awards"…any thoughts?

Jaime: These are quite a lot to choose from….

Diana: Yes, but I think we can go about it this way, what good deeds, positive things would students do in class, for their classmates that would help them get the "Weekly Star Awards?" Does that make sense?

Cynthia and Chris: Ah….OK

Jaime: I get your thinking Diana.

Alright so let's take all thirty six rules again, eliminate the one we selected as classroom rules and let's see what we have left.

Share new ideas Keep your workspace tidy Be kind Always do your best Be a good friend Share with others Finish your homework on time Have a good attitude Contribute to discussions Be respectful of other's ideas Cooperate with your classmates Be creative Be honest Be proud of your work.

Diana: Alright, so after eliminating the rules, we have fourteen left. Now, let's look at each one of them and decide which ones or maybe all of them could be used for the "Weekly Star Awards"

Cynthia: Wow, this is great what you did Diana, it actually narrows it down and easier to select.

Chris and Jaime: Nice work Diana!

Carl: Nice!

Diana: Thanks guys.

Cynthia: When I look at the list (interruption from Diana)….

Diana: Sorry guys, should cross out number 2 'keep your workspace tidy"…that ought to do it…now we have thirteen

Share new ideas Be kind Always do your best Be a good friend Share with others Finish your homework on time Have a good attitude Contribute to discussions Be respectful of other's ideas Cooperate with your classmates Be creative Be honest Be proud of your work.

Cynthia: No problem, thanks Diana. Alright, so when we look at this list, all of them can be used to award the "Weekly Star Awards". What do you think guys?

Carl: Can we combine number 1 and 9: share new ideas, and be respectful of other's ideas? Or we can say, 'Be respectful when your classmates and others share their ideas'

Jaime: That could work, because when we have to share ideas doesn't matter if they are good or bad ideas, we have to respect them, right?

Diana: I agree.

Chris: I agree as well.

Diana: Alright, so let's write them as follows:

Be respectful when your classmates and others share their ideas Be kind Always do your best Be a good friend Share with others Finish your homework on time Have a good attitude Contribute to discussions Cooperate with your classmates Be creative Be honest Be proud of your work.

Diana: Alright how does that look? We now have a total of twelve "Weekly Star Award" categories.

Cynthia: Looks good

Carl: I am good with the list.

Jaime and Chris: No problem.

It had been more than 10 minutes since we started this activity and it was already hitting lunch time.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, can I have everyone put their markers down, stop writing and face me please. Thank you. We are five minutes away from lunchtime, so what we are going to do is clean up and prepare for to go for lunch in the cafeteria. Once you have cleaned up, if you brought lunch, go get it from your locker, if not, line up at the entrance door please. Also make sure you have your ID card, this will also be used as your lunch card, and you will be required to load money into your ID card so that you can be able to buy lunch or snacks.

Diana: Thank goodness I remembered to put my money in my pocket (let me check)….yup still in my pocket, phew!

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, looking good, we have cleaned up, I see students holding packed lunches, all lined up. Turns off the classroom lights and leads the students down to the cafeteria.

As we were not allowed to take the elevator, we had to take the stairs to the cafeteria, going to the bus, going to the gym, pretty much every where we needed to go had to take the stairs, never the elevator.

We reached the cafeteria door and Mrs. Cooper walked us to our table which had our classroom number label on the desk 3C which stood for grade 3, Mrs. Cooper's class. No seating assignments so could seat anywhere. Those who brought lunch sat and begun eating; others like me needed to buy school lunch, but first had to load money into the school card then buy lunch. Mrs. Cooper showed us where we would need to load the money; I put $500, and then went to see what was being served for lunch.

Diana: Wow, they have great food up here, pizza, spaghetti, rice, meat; chicken, vegetables noodles, fruits, and drinks from juice to water to yoghurt etc…tough choices to make…

Jaime: I know, but decisions need to be made or will starve myself and I am quite hungry.

Chris: Exactly. What are you going to get Diana?

Diana: I am going to go with the spaghetti and meat sauce and apple juice. You guys?

Chris: I will get rice with chicken and apple juice

Jaime: I will probably get the same as Chris.

So we line up, say what we want, get served, go to our seats, and eat our lunch. I thought the food was going to have a different taste; on the contrary, it was delicious.

Diana: Guys this spaghetti and meat sauce is so delicious.

Jaime and Chris: The chicken and rice is also quite delicious as well.

Having said that we just ate, enjoyed, not speaking as we were just too hungry ha ha ha, after enjoying such a delicious meal, we cleared our table, returned the plates, and off we were to the playground for recess time. We had another 20-25 minutes of recess before beginning our last session for the day.

Jaime: I am stuffed, that was a great lunch

Chris and Diana: I am stuffed too, lying down on the sand but we both got up and started playing running around, playing tag, other students came and joined us as well, and it became a large group of grade three students' playing tag, quite funny, but was great fun, did a lot of sweating.

We heard the whistle blowing which meant recess time was over and was time to head back to class. We started running only to hear "No running, we are walking please"

We got back to our classes, found Mrs. Cooper sitting by her desk, working on her computer. I had to clean my face as it was sweaty and hot (can image that sweat ha ha) we needed like about five minutes to clean up before settling down for our final afternoon class before ending our first day of school.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, once you have settled down, we will continue with activity 2 that you were working on before lunch time. Each group will now choose a representative to present their work.

Diana: Chris, can you present for the group?

Chris: Sure.

Almost all the groups' presentations had very similar ideas and thoughts as we had prepared as a group, so we were on the right track. After each group presented, we clapped for them, I liked their presentations.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, and the final group, yes, who is presenting for your group?

Carl: Chris will be presenting for our group.

Chris: Alright, so our group… (He spoke for almost six minutes and did a great job!!)

Diana, Jaime, Carl, Cynthia: Nice, well done Chris!!

Chris: Thanks guys.

Mrs. Cooper: Well done to everyone for a great presentation, let's all clap for each other for a job well done. Now from what all of you presented, we all seem to be in the agreement with pretty much the same categories to be used to award the "Weekly Star Awards" Here is what I can see:

Be respectful when your classmates and others share their ideas Be kind Always do your best Be a good friend Share with others Finish your homework on time Have a good attitude Contribute to discussions Cooperate with your classmates Be creative Be honest Be proud of your work.

Mrs. Cooper: Does this look correct to everyone?

Entire Class: Yes

Mrs. Cooper: Well then we shall use these twelve categories to award the "Weekly Star Awards". These categories will be placed on the "Star Chart" and every time you receive an award, your name will have a star next to it, at the end of the week you will receive a certificate. Does anyone have any questions?

Everyone nodding their heads, no questions, which meant all, was well understood.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright, let's put that aside and talk about what will be happening tomorrow as you begin your second day of school. So tomorrow being Tuesday your schedule will look like this:

08:00 AM: Math

08:55 AM: Language Arts

09:05 AM: Science

09:55 AM Return to classroom

10:00 AM: Snack time/Morning Recess (30 minutes)

10: 30 AM Return to class prepare for the next class

10: 40 AM: Computer

11:30 AM: Lunch/ Recess

12:15 PM: Quiet Reading time in your classroom (half an hour)

Need five to ten minutes to prepare and go to your next class

1:00 PM: Foreign Language (Spanish or French)

1: 55 PM: Art

2: 40 PM: Music

3:25 PM: P.E. (Physical Education)

Mrs. Cooper: This schedule is only for tomorrow as it will change every day, however, you will have math, science, language arts and foreign languages will be every day. You will have P.E., art, music and computer three times a week. After you finish every class, you will get a five minute break; this is the time you prepare your books and other materials for the next class. You cannot be late for your next class, which means you will have to be organized, have time management and be on time….remember if you want to be awarded the "Weekly Star Awards" this is just an example of what you will need to do to get this weekly award. Every day at 12:15 PM you will have a quiet reading time where you are allowed to relax, read a book from the classroom library or you can bring and read your own book or you are working on something else. The most important thing is that you are doing it quietly and not disturbing other students.

If your last class of the day will not be held in my classroom, you will need to pack your bags with your homework, reading materials to take with you as once you finish your last class, you will not be coming back to our class but going directly to take the school bus to go home. If you end up forgetting something and you wish to come back to get it that will be difficult as you may end up missing the school bus and then you have to call your parents to come pick you up or you will have to wait for the next bus which leaves at 4:30 PM to take you home. I can't not again, repeating the same statement, say how important it is to learn and train yourself to be organized, disciplined and responsible for your belongings and your studies, this is very important.

Mrs. Cooper: Does anyone have any questions about the daily schedule? OK, no questions, that's good. Oh yes, one more very important thing, do not lose your ID card as that is not only your school card, but it is also your library card in case you wish to go to the library to read or borrow books, and it is also your lunch card, which means it is your responsibility to make sure you have money in your card all the time. If you don't have money, that means no lunch for you, so every time you buy lunch, always check your balance, once you know you have little or no money left in your card, tell your parents to give you money thus you can be able to buy lunch or snacks the next day, otherwise you will go hungry with no food and that will not be good at all.

Mrs. Cooper: Alright I think that's it, what time is it now? We have five more minutes before the bell rings. So we are now going to start preparing to pack and head on to the buses. I am going to give each student a folder which has information for your parents to read tonight, you are to make sure you bring back the folder tomorrow as it will be used to put any given homework, announcements and other documents that you will be taking home every day. Please get your backpacks ready, pack your lunch boxes, your folders, and other items or materials you will need to take home. Once completed, get back to your seats as we wait for the others.

Everyone starts preparing their backpacks, packing things, getting their folders and putting them in their bags, jackets and other items as well. We were all packed and ready and were now asked to line up at the entrance of the door.

Mrs. Cooper: Let's line up, checking to make sure that everyone packed their folders and nothing was left on the desk. After checking everything, Mrs. Cooper escorted us to our school buses, but for Jaime, Chris and me, our parents were coming to collect us, so when we reached downstairs we walked to the left as our parents were waiting at the elementary school entrance, the rest of our classmates went on the right to where the school buses were waiting for them. We all waved good bye and went separate ways.

Jaime, Chris, Diana: Hi mum

Mrs. Anders: Hello Jaime (hugs and kisses)

Diana's mum: Hello Diana (hugs and kisses)

Mrs. Smith (Chris's mum) Hello Chris (hugs and kisses)

We each went with our mums to our cars, waved goodbyes and got into the cars. Our mums waved to each other and also got into their cars. Of course you can imagine what our topic of discussion was going to be for the evening: "First day of School".

I got into the car, mum got into the drivers' seat started the car and off we drove straight home.

Mum: How was your first day of school today?

Diana: It was super super great, Jaime and Chris and me are in the same class.

Mum: Really?

Diana: Yes, it was great seeing them again. And our classroom teacher is Mrs. Cooper; she is so kind, nice, and friendly and likes to smile a lot. We didn't have any classes today, spent the day in our classroom doing group activities. We had to come up with classroom rules, talked about the most important classroom rules, and categories that will be used for the "Weekly Star Awards" and finally Mrs. Cooper talked about our schedule for tomorrow what subjects we shall be learning, recess and lunch times. Oh and I got my new ID card which is also my library card and my lunch card. It is good mum that you gave me money for lunch today otherwise I would have been starved to death and embarrassing.

Mum: Wow that was a pretty busy schedule you had on your first day of school, but I am glad you enjoyed yourself. Were you given anything to bring home?

Diana: Yes, we were each given a folder that has important information to give to you and dad, but I have to return the folder back to school tomorrow.

Mum: That's OK. Were you given any homework?

Diana: No homework today…..Surely mum, we only started school today…..

Mum and Diana: laughing together!

We arrived home shortly at around 4:30 PM and when we got home, Chris and Jaime also arrived home as well. We waved at each other and went inside.

Dad had not arrived home from work, so I just took off my shoes, took out the folder Mrs. Cooper gave me and placed it on the table and went to my bedroom, put my backpack next to my study table. I don't know why but for some reason I was feeling quite exhausted, was maybe first day of school, lots going on, played too much during recess….decided to have a bath and have a nap before dinner.

I must have had a very long nap because next time I woke up was when mum was waking me up to have dinner and that was around 7:30 PM, dad was already back home then. I went to the living room and rushed to give dad a hug…

Dad: Hello Diana, how was your first day in third grade?

Mum: She had quite a lot to share about her first day (as mum was setting up the dinner table)

Diana: It was great. Guess what dad?

Dad: What Diana?

Diana: Jaime and Chris are also in my class. When I saw them in my classroom, we all jumped and jumped with excitement.

Dad: That's really cool. Who's your classroom teacher? How is she or he?

Diana: Our classroom teacher is Mrs. Cooper, very friendly, nice, and cool and likes to smile. I had spent the entire dinner time, raving about how my first day of school was, my classmates, the activities we did today, how delicious the cafeteria food was and how we ate so much that we were so stuffed, found it difficult to even have fun in the playground (both dad and mum laughing as I am telling the stories). I also told them about our class schedule and the subjects we shall be learning in grade 3. By the time, I finished talking, had completely forgotten about eating my dinner as I was so excited talking about my day, only had a few more bites, drank some water and was completely stuffed.

Dad: Wow, what a full exciting day you had, you even forgot to finish your dinner, but I am glad you had a wonderful start of the first day of school. Now remember, you are to focus on your….

Diana: I know….(both dad and Diana in sync) my studies, no getting into fights, have problems or questions should look for my teachers, if I am bullied should report it to my teachers. Dad, mum I have all that printed in my head, all will be OK and I promise to be a great student this year. Oh and Mrs. Cooper gave us a folder with information for you to read, I placed it on the table.

Dad: That's my girl (mum watching as we both hug each other).

Dad and I helped mum clear up the dining table, took everything to the kitchen. Dad went to the living room; I went to my room as it was already past 9 PM and soon would have to prepare for bedtime. I started preparing what I would need to take with me to school tomorrow. I remembered we were going to have P.E. class, so packed a pair of shorts, sneakers and a t-shirt. I also packed the story book that I had been reading during the summer for after lunch quiet reading time. I started yawning and felt tired which meant it was my bedtime so went downstairs to find my parents to tell them goodnight.

Mum and dad: I am going to sleep, feeling quite tired.

Mum: Alright sweetie, (give hugs and kisses) good night, sleep well.

Dad: Come here, (gives hugs and kisses), good night, sleep well.

I went back upstairs, entered my bed, switched off the lights and tucked myself in the bed and slept.

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