Mr. Rafael Morfin is the before and after care teacher at Crème de la Crème in Sterling, Virginia. His passion and care for children runs deep within his heart. Mr. Rafael, or Mr. Raffy as he is better known, touches the hearts of the children in his care beyond measurement. Mr. Rafael delves into the children’s lives; he works hard to discover their passions, their strengths, and their weaknesses. He works to build confidence and sharpen skills. He lives to put smiles on faces. When a child at our school’s family pet passed away, he comforted her, talked to her, and bought her a new pet fish to show her that there are always new beginnings and that in sadness we can still find hope and happiness. He teaches children that they have hearts full of love and they can give it to one another.
Mr. Raffy has received countless letters, notes, and cards from parents expressing their gratitude for times when he has gone above and beyond what is expected. Mr. Raffy often treats children with special gifts to reward them for reaching academic and personal goals that he helps them set for themselves. Mr. Raffy strives to teach children that they have a future and they control it. He truly wants each child to be the absolute best they can be! He is selfless, loving, and a hard worker.
Continuing, Mr. Raffy has implemented an exercise program at our preschool to help get children active. He teaches children that their bodies can be strong and that it is important to take care of them. Mr. Raffy runs with children, teaches them to do push ups and sit ups, and helps them push themselves. I have never seen children so excited to exercise! They are truly proud of themselves and in awe at what their own little bodies can accomplish. He enjoys teaching children that sweets are a sometimes food and that while they are fun they are not as good for our bodies as fruits and vegetables. A few months ago he encouraged a child who had not eaten fresh fruit since he was a baby to broaden his horizons and try to foods. He bought the child a fruit platter so that he could try several different pieces of fruit. When that child’s parents heard what Mr. Raffy did they were so proud of their child and so grateful for Mr. Raffy giving him the confidence to try new things!
Mr. Raffy helps children set goals for themselves, then he acknowledges every little milestone, and he let’s children know their greatness and see their potential. Mr. Raffy teaches his children that they are in control of their minds, their bodies, and their behavior. He does not control children; he teaches them to control themselves.
Mr. Raffy is loved throughout our school by all children. He truly makes them feel special and loved. In the morning you can hear his happy voice in the hallway greeting children and families as they run to him with open arms! His ability to make all children feel extraordinary and worthy is truly astonishing. Mr. Raffy is a mentor, a best friend, and a big brother all rolled into one.
A few weeks ago we received a letter from a public school teacher in our area with a picture and story created by a child enclosed. The letter read, “our writing assignment was for each child to write about their hero, I thought Mr. Raffy would enjoy seeing this.” A child in our before and after care program wrote, “Mr. Raffy is my hero. He is in the Air Force but he has not gone to war yet. He plays with me and makes me happy everyday.” When Mr. Raffy saw the picture and kind words from a child, he was moved to tears. His heart is golden and every family he encounters feels his caring nature.
Mr. Raffy is what childcare is all about. He is warm and compassionate. He challenges children and makes them work hard. He wants children to be strong, healthy, and smart. He helps children see all of their worth, potential, and importance.