The other day, I stumbled upon a class picture from when I was in the very same grade as I now teach. Sixth grade. I remember the 11-year-old me from then because I so clearly remember my teacher from that year -- Mr. Dudak. He did not seem to often follow school rules, was always cheering us as individuals, and found the means to celebrate our classroom in unorthodox ways. I remember the sense of adventure more than anything else. I hope I have a bit of Mr. D in me. #smallstories