Reposted in Honor of Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation week is fast approaching. The first full week of May is when we are encouraged to thank teachers and appreciate them for their positive impact on the world. I personally feel that a week is not enough time to pay tribute to those individuals who still choose to enter the noble and often thankless profession of teaching. This is why I am reposting our first blog post dedicated to this special time of year a little early.
I dedicate this blog to teachers everywhere! It is time to shine the light on these individuals who strive to make our world a better place. During my research for this blog I came across countless stories of changed lives, saved lives, and in some cases teachers who gave their own lives so that their students may live! I could only pick a few to share. The stories highlighted in this blog are fairly extreme examples of selflessness, dedication, and love. Later, I will reflect on a subtler example that still had a profound impact on my own life. But before that, let us turn our attention to the following tales.
In our first story we have a Kindergarten teacher that literally gave a part of herself so one of her students could survive a debilitating disease. To learn more about this teacher click here. Next, we hear of teachers who kept their wits during a major tornado to protect the lives of her students. The last news story is dedicated to one truly selfless teacher and coach that gave his own life trying to save others.
As mentioned earlier, what you have just read and viewed were extreme examples of selflessness, dedication and love. I hope you share their stories with others. However, I feel equal importance should be given to the quiet, everyday stories of teachers and their deeds. Let us celebrate those teachers who bring comfort, challenge students to become more, listen when an ear is needed, and plant seeds of possibility that will one day help an individual find their life’s calling. I have attended numerous workshops, where the question is asked of the attendees, “Why did you choose to become a teacher?” In most cases, the answer has to do with a teacher who inspired them and impacted their life.
For me, it was my Fifth Grade Teacher, Mr. Burns. He was honest, funny, caring, stern, fair, and so full of life! I have images of him playing the guitar, teaching us multiplication, showing up to class in his jogging clothes, taking us outdoors for hands on exploration, showing us videos of wild places, and sharing stories of his work with Greenpeace. He was authentic, engaging, compassionate, and saw each of us as we were. Later in my own life I got involved in environmental programs, spent a lot of time outdoors (still do) and I eventually became a teacher.
Without a doubt, Mr. Burns inspired me! Who inspired you? Do you have a story to share about a great teacher? We would love to hear it! TeacherCents sends out a big Thank You to all the teachers out there. We appreciate all that you do to make this world a better place!
Image Credit: docstockmedia / Shutterstock.com
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