We were all sitting quietly in our 5th grade classroom when the teacher introduced a new student who was joining our class. “This is Janie,” Mrs. Bricken said, “and I want everyone to make her feel welcome.” She raised her arms and fluttered her fingers like a waving flag, which was our cue. “Hi Janie,” we said in unison. Our teacher told Janie where to sit, which was right next to me. I smiled my shy smile at her, and she smiled back.
