My journey began over two decades ago as a school health educator, and I can still recall those experiences vividly. My colleagues and I were often undervalued and underpaid, navigating the complexities of public education. Yet, it quickly became clear that teaching is not about financial gain; it’s a commitment to community service, driven by a passion far greater than monetary rewards.
Regrettably, our society continues to undervalue educators, as school districts inundate them with an overwhelming amount of bureaucracy and evolving educational theories, standards, and testing requirements. I challenge anyone to find another profession that tolerates such conditions.
Yet, every fall, teachers return to their classrooms. Why? Because it’s more than just a job; it’s a calling. Educators are motivated by an intrinsic desire to mold our children into responsible adults. It is undoubtedly one of the most honorable professions. Consider this: if I asked you to name an influential adult from your youth, chances are, it would be a teacher. I can list several who significantly shaped my life, especially my high school science instructor, Mr. Thompson, who inspired my love for health education.
To all the educators out there: Thank you.
- Thank you for being a substitute parent to every child in your care.
- Thank you for offering support to those who lack it at home.
- Thank you for encouraging the child who hears nothing but negativity outside of school.
- Thank you for spending your own resources so that children can experience joy, especially when they don’t have any at home.
- Thank you for looking out for the student who may be challenging because no one else is.
- Thank you for reading stories aloud to those who may never be read to at home.
- Thank you for embracing the child who may shy away from affection.
- Thank you for welcoming each student each morning with a smile, especially those who may have just faced adversity at home.
- Thank you for instilling hope in kids, telling them they can achieve their dreams, particularly when they hear otherwise at home.
- Thank you for grading assignments on weekends, creating displays after hours, and enduring planning days that often leave little room for actual planning.
- Thank you for mastering the art of holding nature calls until a designated time, and for squeezing lunch into mere minutes.
Most importantly, thank you for your unwavering dedication to a profession where achievements often go unrecognized. Thank you for teaching the same lessons repeatedly, while sometimes questioning, “Will anyone remember this? Why am I doing this?”
I assure you, I remember, my children will remember, and someday, somewhere, one of your former students will recall you fondly, grateful for the ways you enriched their lives. They will carry forward the skills you imparted, whether it’s reading, math, or critical thinking, all thanks to your guidance.
Lastly, a special thank you to Mrs. Johnson, my sixth-grade history teacher. At the time, I thought her assignments were tedious; now, I realize she equipped me with invaluable skills for connecting with others. Wherever you are, I’ll forever value the lessons you taught me.
For more insights on home insemination, check out our other blog posts, including helpful resources from Women’s Health and Make a Mom, which provide excellent guidance on this topic.
In summary, educators play an irreplaceable role in shaping lives and communities. Their dedication, often overlooked, deserves our deepest gratitude.