Having a safe space to imagine and dream and (re)invent yourself is the first step to being happy and successful, whatever road you choose to pursue.
Ashley Bryan, We Rise We Resist We Raise Our Voices foreword
Hope, a mark of hope, a small piece of washi tape from a student now in my notebook reminding me that I am in a safe space.
Creating a safe space for writers is my top goal as an ELA teacher. When I hear a student read aloud their most fresh and vulnerable words, I am honored. Sometimes they don’t want to share; however, they will hand me their notebook to read. They are watching my eyes for the glow of adoration. I do adore what they write. They are confident children. I need to remember, though, that they are children. They need my validation. My words of encouragement. A sign of hope.
A mark of hope
Margaret Simon, draft
a place to be
A dream to dream
a road to see
you see in me
a hand with a gift
a mark of hope
a place to be
Reflections on the Teche 
Very true, very sacred and SO crucial. Bravo!
I need to play with some tape, and dore sketching. I love the tenderness you bring to your student writers, especially your joy in their words and understanding of how important it is that you see them, each of them, through their writing. That is a precious gift, that attention.
This is beautiful, Margaret. Thanks for sharing not only your words, but your art. I couldn’t agree more with you belief that students need validation, especially when they are vulnerable enough to share their writing.
Such an amazing gift you give your students!
Margaret, you create safe and inviting spaces for ALL of us. You’re an extraordinary encourager. I love the sense of belonging your in poem and also the way you love what the children write. Even the festive washi tape seems to impart hope!
Margaret, your students are so blessed. I love this story and your sweet poem. Yes, your affirmation, encouragements, twinkling eyes of adoration and the washi tape are all marks of hope.
Lovely Margaret, your poem, mark in your notebook, and what you are doing with your students!