Learning from Jeremiah

Over the years, we have seen our share of incredible children, each special in their own way. Jeremiah is a recent standout. While still with us in pre-K, his knowledge, curiosity, and intellect went far beyond what is typical. Jeremiah knows all the basic parts of the body, which is an achievement, but not exceptional. In addition, he recites and understands the entire digestive system and its process. That feels exceptional. He banters casually about growing sunflowers in a classroom project, using words like “photosynthesis,” “nutrients,” and “oxygen.” Kassandra Jackson, Center Manager, was recently back from maternity leave and Jeremiah couldn’t wait to greet her. “Jeremiah called me over and asked me if I knew what a supernova was. I was taken aback so I sat right next to him and asked if he could explain it to me. He rubbed under his chin and went on and on about dwarf planets and black holes. He eventually switched the conversation to inform me of an impending solar eclipse and how to prepare for it safely. He is a fascinating child and a breath of fresh air.” Reading fluency is not common among preschoolers, and Jeremiah’s aptitude came as a surprise to Kelly Shaffer, Center Manager. “Jeremiah would read a book quietly to himself during rest time. I remember being incredibly surprised he was ACTUALLY reading and not just looking at the pages. Our teachers always had books that he was interested in and would constantly engage him in higher-level thinking.” Teacher Danyelis Heredia had a special connection with Jeremiah. “His talent was on display in our classroom. He would ask to read a book to the class, and we would allow him to do that during circle time. His peers were more interested in him reading than when the teachers would do it!” Jeremiah moved on from our center and into kindergarten. As a community, we cannot wait to see what he will become. Perhaps the next big changemaker!