When the announcement came that a new secretary of education was confirmed, I found myself stunned. It was hard to believe that someone with no background in public education, either as a student, parent, or educator, could hold such a pivotal role. The new secretary’s inability to guarantee protections for students with disabilities or to ensure that our schools remain safe spaces is just the beginning of a troubling trend in education policy.
As a parent of children currently enrolled in public schools, I felt an immediate wave of concern for the future of their education — how will these decisions impact their schools, their teachers, and the overall quality of public education? This situation resonates deeply with me, as my family has a rich history in teaching. My grandparents dedicated their careers to public education, and my mother, a single parent, spent 25 years teaching special education. Now, my husband teaches high school English in a bustling city.
Witnessing the dedication and effort that teachers pour into their work has opened my eyes. Contrary to the misconception that teaching is an easy job with plenty of time off, the reality is starkly different. For example, my husband rises before dawn to prepare for his day, often arriving at school hours early. His schedule is packed — from grading papers during prep time to staying late for meetings and extracurricular activities. Even during breaks, he often finds himself buried in lesson planning and paperwork.
Moreover, teachers face rigorous evaluations multiple times a year and frequently worry about their students’ well-being, both academically and emotionally. The stress they endure is palpable, and the appreciation they deserve often goes unacknowledged.
Yet, we, the families who entrust our children to these devoted educators, truly value their efforts. Although we might not express it as often as we should, we see you, and we are profoundly grateful. We recognize the challenges of managing a classroom full of energetic children and the relentless commitment you show to each student.
We understand that during your lunch breaks, you are not just eating but are actively refining lesson plans, connecting with parents, and collaborating with peers. We know that many teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies, snacks, and educational materials. The countless hours you dedicate, often invisible to others, are kept in the notes you jot down at your desks, and the worries that linger in your minds at night.
Your dedication extends beyond the classroom; you care for our children as if they were your own. Your heart aches when they stumble and rejoices when they succeed. We recognize that you would go to great lengths to protect them, even in the most challenging situations.
We also see the lack of support, funding, and time off that plagues your profession. The long hours and the occasional harsh feedback from supervisors, parents, or even students do not go unnoticed. And yes, you absolutely deserve your well-earned summer break — and a raise!
Most importantly, as we navigate these uncertain times, we pledge to stand by your side. Many of us are becoming more politically active, advocating for our public education system by contacting our representatives whenever we sense a threat. More parents will take on roles in school boards, PTAs, and educational advocacy groups, volunteering to ensure that our schools remain inspiring environments.
Teachers, you are not alone in this fight. We recognize the immense sacrifices you have made for our children, and we stand in solidarity with you, ready to support you with strength and gratitude. We cannot thank you enough for everything you do.
For more insights on how to support teachers and engage in educational advocacy, check out this blog post here. And if you’re looking for at-home insemination kits, a trusted retailer can be found at Make a Mom. To learn more about the topic of artificial insemination, visit this informative resource on Wikipedia.
Summary
This article emphasizes the dedication and hard work of teachers, acknowledging the challenges they face and the appreciation they deserve. It encourages parents and communities to support educators actively and highlights the importance of standing together in advocating for public education.