As a mother, sending my eldest child off to middle school was one of the most overwhelming experiences I’ve faced. Sure, children navigate sixth grade every year, and perhaps I’m being overly dramatic, but the anticipation was daunting. Since his birth, I harbored a quiet dread about this transitional phase. Who among us hasn’t heard the tales of middle school chaos? Suddenly needing bras, braces, acne cream, and navigating the intricate social landscape filled with cliques and heartbreak—those were some of my own challenges during those three formative years.
Fortunately, I managed to skate through my middle school years with a moderate level of coolness. But as a parent today, I hear frightening accounts of what middle school has become: bathrooms rumored to be rendezvous spots, dances notorious for illicit activities, and school buses likened to a juvenile detention center. My child came home after his first day declaring he understood the inspiration behind Guns N’ Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle.” Yikes.
However, as the year progressed and we approached the end of his first middle school experience during National Teacher Appreciation Week, I felt compelled to express my gratitude to his sixth-grade teachers:
I may not know you personally, but I truly appreciate your efforts.
This year marks the first time my child has had multiple teachers each semester, and with three younger siblings, my involvement at school has taken a backseat. I’ve never before found myself so disconnected from my child’s educators; I probably couldn’t recognize some of them in a lineup! This might explain why many middle and high school teachers receive so few individual appreciation gifts—after all, who has the time or resources to shop for eight teachers, especially when you don’t know them? Yet, I wish to convey that even without knowing you, I am thankful for the care and dedication you have shown my son. His year has exceeded my expectations, largely due to your influence.
This year has opened my eyes to your significance.
My child delved into Shakespeare for the first time. He single-handedly crafted a manta ray from felt and pipe cleaners. He tackled algebra, delivered his first speeches, and even won debates. He constructed a motor and discovered a newfound passion for volleyball. Most importantly, he unearthed a talent for languages. I hadn’t fully grasped how pivotal middle school is in shaping learning and propelling students toward new academic challenges. However, I’m acutely aware of the impact a teacher can have on a student’s introduction to literature. Since my son doesn’t loathe Shakespeare, I’d say you’ve succeeded—thank you for that!
You’re truly remarkable for undertaking this role.
As a parent of two tweens, the thought of entering a classroom filled with hormonally charged adolescents every day is daunting. While I recognize that this age has its unique charms and that students can be fascinating to observe, the challenges are immense. When you factor in the disparity between your salary and the vital nature of your work, it’s clear to me that you are modern-day superheroes. I genuinely believe that Superman would proudly don pajamas adorned with the faces of middle school teachers.
Today, I contributed a cake to a PTA-sponsored buffet in your honor. I was too rushed to sign my name, but perhaps that anonymity served a purpose—it allowed you to feel appreciated by more individuals. Like many occasions (cough*Mother’sDay*cough), it seems we shouldn’t need a specific week to honor educators. Nevertheless, I’m grateful for this opportunity to pause and extend my thanks. Your work is demanding, and when done poorly, it garners attention; conversely, when done well, it often goes unnoticed.
This is my way of speaking up and showing my appreciation.
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Summary
This article reflects on the transformative role middle school teachers play in students’ lives, highlighting the importance of their work and expressing gratitude during Teacher Appreciation Week. As a mother, the author acknowledges the challenges and fears associated with sending a child to middle school, while recognizing the positive impact educators have on their students’ growth and learning experiences.
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