Susan

The door was opened by a professional looking woman, wearing a warm, genuine smile. I was welcomed into an orderly room with a cheerful yet soothing palette. Settling into a cozy upholstered chair with a needlepoint pillow at my back, I let my eyes drift about the room while our son is finishing a math exercise at the chalkboard. (Inwardly, I smile, knowing how helpful it is for my child to have some time to be standing, after a day spent seated at a desk, and that after putting pencil to paper at school, he enjoys the feel of the chalk.) Charming antique postcards atop the fireplace mantle give me a nostalgic reminder of the upcoming holiday. Books organized under the window spaces reflect the many diverse topics that various students will be needing and I resist the urge to go sit on the carpeting and pull out an interesting title. A bulletin board holds notice of an upcoming museum exhibition, famous artist prints alongside the printed information, connecting the children to their local community. To my side I spot the doll clad in the traditional fucshia dress of Korean women that Evan gave his tutor. We know that the dolls are Mrs. Morgan’s charming way of introducing the ethnic customs of various world cultures. The dolls will stimulate the interest and give a visual to the material that can be gleaned from one of the many sets of encyclopedias, standing ready for referencing. I must draw my eyes away, as Evan has finished his work and Mrs. Morgan is ready to share some insights with me while my son practices for his upcoming social studies test with a state and capital puzzle. As he packs up his work, Mrs. Morgan shares information with me about an upcoming parent lecture being offered. This is a typical afternoon session with Mrs. Morgan and why she has been an important part of our son’s education these past 4 years.