small victory

***I meant to post this a long time ago, but never finished my thought. Since I'm on break and starting to evaluate myself as a teacher I thought it fitting to share a happy moment.

My students took the NY State Chemistry Regents Exam this afternoon (1/23/09). Though I'm terrified to grade the tests I am hoping for the best.

A veteran teacher keeps telling me that I should look at the progress my students have made this past semester rather than sulk about their lack of preparedness for the Regents. So when a student tells me, "Miss, I have never tried so hard on a test in my life." I cannot help but smile.