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Honoring Mothers and other celebrations

Writer: Howie Gordon
Howie Gordon
May 28
4 min read

As the school year draws to a close, many of us feel a natural urge to slow down and reflect. This moment of winding down offers a unique chance to appreciate the steady support and guidance that have carried us through the challenges of the past months. Among the most influential figures in this journey are mothers, whose nurturing presence shapes our lives in profound ways. This post is a heartfelt tribute to mothers everywhere, with a special dedication to my own mother, whose love and wisdom were always a constant source of strength.


This month many countries in the world celebrate Mother's Day - Mother's Day is an annual holiday celebrated on the second Sunday of May in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. In 2026, the holiday fell on May 10. It is dedicated to honoring mothers, motherhood, maternal bonds, and the contributions of mothers in society.


You taught me everything

And everything you've given me

I'll always keep it inside

You're the driving force in my life, yeah

A Song for Mama - Song by Boyz II Men ‧ 1997



The Importance of Winding Down at the End of the School Year


The end of the school year is often a whirlwind of activity: final exams, projects, celebrations, and farewells. Yet, once the business settles, there is a vital need to pause and recharge. This winding down is not just about rest; it is about reflection and gratitude.


For many families, mothers are the anchors during this hectic time. They manage schedules, provide emotional support, and create spaces where children can feel safe and understood. Their role often goes unnoticed amid the chaos, but it is essential. Taking time to acknowledge this helps us appreciate the quiet strength behind every success.


The reason I began with such a personal introduction is that I lost my mother a few weeks ago. Since then, I’ve been carrying a deep sense of longing that I am still trying to come to terms with — and it is also the reason this broadcast has been on hold for so long.

When my mother passed away, I was overwhelmed by the number of messages from her former pupils, many from as far back as the 1970s. They shared heartfelt condolences and spoke about what a wonderful person she was and the profound impact she had on their lives.

Yes, she too was an educator — and a truly brilliant one at that.


I found this song by Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus which really sums it all up.

"I learned from you that I do not crumble

I learned that strength is something you choose

All of the reasons to keep on believin'

There's no question, that's a lesson, that I learned from you"

Song by Billy Ray Cyrus and Miley Cyrus ‧ 2006


Congrats and Thanks

Congratulations to Dr Nicole Broder on becoming the National Elementary Chief Inspector and a huge thank you to Dr Tziona Levi for all her support, encouragement and direction with these broadcasts.



National Music Events

Over the past month, I have been very fortunate to be an integral part of three music events, Tel Aviv District, Haifa District and the Church Schools of the North. These events were unbelievable and showed how well the two languages of English and music blend together in harmony.

Here is a small excerpt from the event with the Church schools in Nazareth singing Top of the World. A huge thanks to all the inspectors, counselors and teachers that were involved in these projects.


Happy Holidays

For those of you loyal readers that are celebrating now I would like to wish you a happy holiday.


Guess the song 🎶🎤🎧📢


Each broadcast I will add a new Guess the Song picture. Some will be easy and some more difficult. Let’s see how well you do.

Click on the link to the Padlet below.



Past Broadcasts

I want to urge you to take a look at past broadcasts - a lot of the content is not date specific and you can can get many ideas for your lessons. If you have some ideas that you would like to share please feel free.



My happy corner - Smile of the week 

I like to find shorts / reels that make me smile and just feel good. 


Changing of the guards


All the leaves are brown


Teamwork



Eurovision

Well done to Noam Bettan for coming second and WOW! what an amazing performance.


Here is an English Irish adaptation


Computer Tools of the Week

Gemini Games

Have you tired playing games with Gemini. Try on your phone and with your pupils in class. Try 20 Questions, Trivia, Categories and other word games. It's a lot of fun. Here is a video with one of the games



Musical Joke of the Week

BOY GEORGE’SPET LIZARD BIT THREE PEOPLETHIS WEEK

Authorities have warned the singer he needs a calmer chameleon.


Your voice matters

These broadcasts are admin-controlled, and I treasure your feedback. Drop ideas, needs, and requests here (topics, grade. bands, songs, tools):

Send me your clips or finds—let’s feature classrooms across Israel this year! This is your chance to be noticed.


The Final Note:

 Looking forward to eventually meeting you all one day F2F - Wishing you all a well deserved holiday and keep warm.


PS. Why is “abbreviation” such a long word?


P.P.S. If you know of a colleague, friend, relative or parent that is not part of

 these broadcasts, invite them in via this link. They can thank you later.

You can access these broadcasts via the WhatsApp group



You can join the Email list by sending me an email to learnntune@gmail.com and I will add you to the mailing list.

You can access our site at http://bit.ly/learnintune and past broadcasts here https://learnntune.wixsite.com/my-site


 
 
 

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