Cooties can spread faster than the common cold amongst children as they ascend through grade school, but there is a short period of time where it’s very common to have an “elementary” crush. My first crush in first grade fortunately didn’t break my heart, but she most definitely knew how to make me blush. I enjoyed spending time with her, and I always wanted to impress her. Her perfume wafted throughout the classroom, but it was a smell I didn’t mind getting used to on a daily basis. I wasn’t the only boy to have a crush on my first grade teacher, but the clicking of Miss Worokey’s high heels coming towards me always made my heart race.
You’ve never seen a more decorated classroom unless you step foot into Miss Worokey’s lair. She always had my attention as she taught, and every night around the dinner table I always had stories to share with my dad and mom about Miss Worokey. I remember being most baffled when she taught me the number zero. Grasping the thought that there was a number less than one was pretty phenomenal for me at that time. The boys in my class all wanted to hold Miss Worokey’s hand as our class would walk to lunch or the library, but unfortunately she only had two of them. She loved using words like “sweetie,” “honey,” and “cutie pie.” No one knew how old she was, but her black hair, trendy outfits, and gleaming red lipstick smile led us all to believe she couldn’t have been old enough to be our mother. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she loved each and every child that walked into her classroom.
Perhaps to no surprise, I had perfect attendance in first grade. Miss Worokey celebrated my accomplishment and awarded me a perfect attendance certificate and a permeating perfume hug. I cherished this piece of cardstock, got it framed, and still today it hangs in my bedroom. By the time second grade came along I was sad to leave Miss Worokey’s classroom, but my love for learning and school continued to foster. Year after year, I continued to achieve perfect attendance. My family traveled to Vail, Colorado one winter for vacation, but I stayed at home with my grandparents so I didn’t have to miss school. By the time I graduated high school, I had only ever missed one day of school due to the death of my grandpa. This rare accomplishment wouldn’t have happened without Miss Worokey.
No need to douse yourself with perfume or cologne before walking out your door tomorrow morning, but know that something you say or something you do, big or small, could forever be remembered by someone. Even your most insignificant actions will be noticed by someone who looks up to you. I’m not sure if Miss Worokey knew about my crush, but she might have gotten the hint during story time when I always wanted to sit next to her. If that reoccurring incident didn’t seem suspicious, I’m sure Miss Worokey caught onto one of the several other behaviors of mine that let her know I thought she was special.
We all have special people in our lives from both the present and the past. These special people have been a part of making us who we are today. Our array of friends and acquaintances will continue to grow throughout our life, but some will be unforgettable. We don’t always get to see how the things we say or do positively impact other people, but everyone appreciates knowing how they’ve made a difference in the world. I hope I will also one day impact someone’s life like Miss Worokey did mine. It’s hard to say how you could make a difference in someone else’s life, but if someone has made a difference in your life, tell them.
Dear Miss Worokey: Thank you for being an excellent first grade teacher. You gave out the most delicious taffy when students used their manners frequently, and I really appreciate the other ways you motivated me and my classmates to become better students. I loved reading about Dick, Jane, and Spot and learning about the number zero with you. A lot has changed since 1991, but I am certain the boys are still lining up to hold your hand even in 2010. My love for education was first fostered by you, and I am forever grateful.
Ryan Devlin is a 24-year-old English teacher and cross country coach at Brockway Area High School. If you enjoy hugs from women with alluring perfume or want to contact Ryan become a fan of “Keep the Penny” on facebook. Total reader savings thus far for your piggy bank, four cents.