I don't know how to do this... Updated

I don't usually post personal things, but I just found out that one of my colleagues passed away after a very brief battle with cancer... and he was only in his 30's... how are teachers supposed to help kids through something like this when we're grieving ourselves?? I worked with him for 12 years... I don't know how I'm going to face Monday morning...

UPDATE:

Thanks for the support. It was pretty much one of the most awful weeks I've had in years, and it culminated in taking school buses to the funeral today... there should never be school buses at a funeral. But I'm lucky to work in such a supportive place, and I know this is something I'll be thinking about tomorrow. Thanks again.

Message edited 11/23/2011 4:00:01 PM.

Re: I don't know how to do this...

We realized we work in the same district before. I am so, so sorry to hear he has passed.

I don't know how you will handle Monday for yourself or the kids. But I hope you will all be able to find comfort in each other.

I just wanted to send you a hug

Re: I don't know how to do this...

A few years ago, a teacher I work with lost her battle with cancer. And when we had a moment of silence in class, I did cry. I couldn't help it...she was an amazing woman, and I missed her. (And I was pregnant and had no control of my emotions at that point).
The kids were great with it....they were sad as well...but I think it helped them to see that it's ok to cry sometimes. It doesn't show weakness, it shows you're human.
So sorry to hear about your loss....

Re: I don't know how to do this...

I don't have any advice but I am very sorry for your loss

Re: I don't know how to do this...

he was such a great person and did so much for our district. it's hard to believe that he's gone. hugs to all of you at the high school!!

Re: I don't know how to do this...

Thanks, everybody. I'm just so rocked by this. I feel like I'm in a fog, and I just want to wake up. And last week was terrible knowing he was in so much pain, but this... I just don't know.

Re: I don't know how to do this...

I know a few emoticons don't help much but I will be thinking of you and your school/district on Monday morning I'm so sorry to hear the news!!

Re: I don't know how to do this...

One of my very good friends lost her battle to breast cancer in 2001. She was in and out of the classroom the entire school year. When she finally couldn't do it anymore, I got a lot of her students in my class. It was very difficult. I teach high school, and those kids still had to take a Regents exam. We cried together the day I found out, and the kids were so great to me the day of the funeral. They will surprise you. I am sorry for your loss, and good luck tomorrow.

Re: I don't know how to do this...

I'm sorry for your loss. It's terrible but you have to TRY to be strong for your students. Feel free to cry and show grief. It's a natural part of life! But also show them positive ways to remember him and how they can live on in his memory. I'm sorry for your loss.

Re: I don't know how to do this... Updated

I updated at the top now that I somehow made it through the week... Thanks again.

Re: I don't know how to do this... Updated

Re: I don't know how to do this... Updated

Re: I don't know how to do this... Updated