Parental Pride

I know that we have devoted a pretty good chunk of this blog to the frustrating side of parenting and specifically the ways that our children can drive us nuts. But mixed in here and there, we have memorialized some instances where we were just amazed and really blown away by something that our kids have done, this is one of those times. 

As Jake is a sixth grader in the K-6 elementary school here, this is his last year before he leaves the neighborhood to go into middle school. He and his ever morphing group of friends are truly enjoying their time as "big men/women on campus". One of the perks afforded to the sixth graders this year was the option to apply and interview for a "PE Apprenticeship" position (basically PE teachers aide). This was a very coveted position as Mr. Perotto is the most popular teacher in school and even at this age, they can see the value of having to be somewhere OTHER than class for part of the day, so for the six available slots, 28 kids interviewed.

Jake took this VERY seriously, working really hard on his application. He practiced for his interview with Marisa a couple of times prior and wore his Sunday best when it was his interview slot. He has said in the past that if he can't play pro sports he would like to be a coach, which we both try to encourage as he has a nature and personality that would lend itself to that calling. He has coached the girls basketball team (with Mr. Perotto), launched his "Sportz Skillz for Kidz" business over the Summer and is generally just great with little kids, so we were happy he was taking this so seriously. 

Well all his hard worked paid off and he was selected for one of the positions. He couldn't have been more proud of himself for succeeding, and we were proud of the effort and determination he showed. He loves coaching, loves PE and this should help make his 6th grade year a great one for him. 

Way to go Jake!