I am constantly asked why I chose to become a teacher, and I tend to hesitate because I never know how to tell someone that it’s because I already love and care about kids that I don’t even know.

How do I explain that it’s because I want the best for them and want them to become more than they’ve ever dreamed? Not many people can understand it, so I’ll do my best to explain.

I went to a high school that was Title I, meaning it was Economically Disadvantaged. Unfortunately, when a school is considered poor, or they don’t have the financial help from the parents, they don’t receive as much support or recognition from the county. It’s a sad truth. Let me tell you why.

My high school was and still is full of some of the smartest, funniest, most caring students I’ve ever met. They don’t have much, but they give everything. They are hardly ever expected to achieve what others do, but they still work hard. They understand that it is solely up to them to make it out of our city and on to better things. They rely on themselves and sometimes on each other, but never expect help from high up the chain.

I’ve seen students who come to school hungry, but never complain about being ready for lunch. I’ve seen students wearing the same clothes several days in a row, and they know that it’s obvious, but they go on about their day and do their work.

I’ve seen students who can barely keep their eyes open, and it’s because they have to work to help support their families while still getting an education and bettering their lives.

And I’ve even seen students who bite off more than they can chew because they don’t want to be someone who never even tasted ambition.

The beautiful part about what I’ve witnessed with these students is the way in which they find a teacher, latch onto him or her, and except help, encouragement, and love from them.

Teachers are there to guide you through life, and not just curriculum. They are supposed to treat you as a person as well as a student. They are to build you up when you’ve been nothing but torn down. They are to protect you from harm, whether it be physical, emotional, or mental. They are there to listen, attempt to understand, and always care.

They are home away from home.

I want my students to walk into my classroom and know, without a doubt, that they are loved. I will go to bat for them, I will take interest in what they are passionate about, I will support them, and I will take time to create a bond with them. I will meet them where they are instead of putting it all on them… and I will NEVER give up on them.

It doesn’t matter where you come from. It matters where you’re going.

Being a teacher isn’t just a choice, it’s a calling.