{Spanish Program}

This year Mack has been learning Spanish in the Jefferson Elementary Spanish Immersion program. Along with learning the basic 1st grade requirements they are taught Spanish. I would be lying if I said it has been easy- there has been struggles, but now that the year is almost over I am so thankful that he has had this opportunity. He has come leaps and bounds this year and I am amazed at what these kids can do with a little encouragement! 

I can say that we have enjoyed the program, however, there has been a few things that I haven't been a huge fan of. I do think that with time these things will be resolved (this is the first year they have offered this program). We also ADORE the teachers and could not have asked for a better team, especially for Mack. He loves school. He takes it all very seriously and gets so concerned when things are not perfect- we are working on that! I couldn't be prouder of him and all that he has accomplished this past year. 

We were able to go to his Spanish Program this week and watch him interact with his classmates and perform some of the things they have learned. There was songs and stories and some fun dancing. He kept a straight face the entire time and wouldn't really make eye contact with us- he is so shy! I couldn't help but get a little emotional watching him, I just can't get over how old he seems to be. He really is such a great kid, we adore this little face!

 This boy is very loved... especially by his sisters and cousins. He is very patient with each of them.

 He was so excited that all of these people came to watch him, we got there early to get a front row seat! Yes, I am that mom! 

 I can't say enough how much we love his teachers this year. Mrs. Ricks (above) and Ms. Tonks (below) have went above and beyond to make sure Mack is reaching his full potential. They are so good at what they do and have so much love and patience for these kids. Mack is already pretty sad about going into the 2nd grade and leaving them behind! He asked me just the other day if he could be in Ms. Tonks class again next year- she really is so patient and kind. 

 If you asked me today if I feel like this program is worth it I would say yes! But- I do think that it is not for every child. (I'm not putting Carmen in it next year.) It has been difficult not being able to help him in some areas- neither The Man or I speak Spanish, that has been a huge challenge! I also feel that it puts a lot of pressure on these kids to learn both the basics of English and then Spanish on top of that. But, with that being said, I do feel that it has been great for Mack and he is doing really well with it all. Im just really thankful he has this opportunity! And he loves it- so really that is all that matters.