In heaven...again

Now that my emotional high is over (sniff, sniff), I thought I'd post some pictures of the big day. My excitement began a week before, when the Jazz P.R. rep called and told me we had won the Jazz reading contest and would be receiving a player (they wouldn't tell me who). So, preparations began in my class, making banners and logos to welcome whoever was going to come. The pessimist in me kept thinking, I bet they send someone the kids have never heard of and they'll all be dissappointed. But Ash reassured me that the kids would be happy no matter what, so that eased my nervousness. I barely slept a wink the night before the assembly, feeling like I was a 6 year old again, the night before Christmas.

The day arrived and I must have been bouncing off the walls before the assembly, because one of my students said, "Mr. Shirley, you need to calm down." That was great, getting behavior advice from a 6th grader. I received a call from the Jazz at about 12, asking for directions to the school, and they informed me that Paul Millsap was coming. Brandon, Jenna, and Blake, and all the other smart aleks are probably saying right now, "Who's that?" Although I had others that I would have liked to see besides him, it turned out great! I introduced myself to him and he was happy to sign autographs for a few of the teachers and take a few photos with us. He was very personable and the kids loved him. Rumor has it we were supposed to receive Kirilenko but he got injured the night before and couldn't make it, but we were satisfied nonetheless. We gave him a rousing introduction, complete with a spotlight and me doing my best Dan Roberts (the Jazz anouncer) impression. He then read a couple of books to the kids and answered a few of their questions, and ended with a slam dunk! I even got on the news! (The parents at my school are probably wondering why I'm on t.v. all the time, and if I ever get any teaching done, but that's another story). Anyway, it was a great day for everyone, from the teachers, students, and parents involved and to all those who helped out with the reading program. I'm already making plans for next year (and yes, we WILL win again!) And maybe I'll dunk next year! (ya right).