The school there and our school here have communicated with one another, and it seems that our ANDREW is doing quite well. In fact, he has made quite an impression in just a short time. The word from his new school is that ANDREW has dazzled the adults there with his crisp, solid handshake, and his direct eye contact. It does the heart good to know that he was listening and that he followed through on his promise to carry on those life skills.
Our second student to leave, of course, was WENDELL. WENDELL has been in contact with us on The Bloggatteer Experience, and he reports that he misses us. He also claims that he has been shaking hands.
In recent teacher meetings and in private discussions in the hallways of our school, my peers and supervisors have acknowledged the difference our handshakes have made. Not only is the firm handshake with eye contact an important and effective skill in acquiring employment, we are successfully lifting up some shy or socially-awkward students. It is obvious to people who have known these kids for years.
Keep it up, Hoggatteers! It may seem simple, but you are getting noticed in a positive way. As we find ourselves taking field trips in the next few months, I will expect thoughtful behavior to accompany these skills.