This is for every teacher, counselor, administrator, and mentor I’ve ever had.

Because you are the first ones there and the last ones to leave. Because for us, you always put aside your own needs. Because sometimes it feels like you’re the only ones listening. But above all else, because you actually treat us like we’re human beings.

You share your knowledge, your compassion, and your enthusiasm with us. You constantly give without the expectation of receiving anything in return. You remind us that education is the foundation for every bright future. But you also remind us that life isn’t always so serious.

But I know, sometimes it can get discouraging. I’m sorry for every assignment I turned in late – and for the ones I never turned in at all. I’m sorry for all the classes I zoned out in – and for the ones I skipped. I’m sorry I changed my schedule a million times during the busiest days of the year. I’m sorry for every time we challenged your authority and for every parent you’ve had to deal with. But most of all, I’m sorry I forgot how lucky I am to have you.

You molded us, supported us, and encouraged us to be the best versions of ourselves. You respected us and believed we could achieve our own definition of success. And although, we don’t quite say it enough, thank you.

Thank you for accepting the shy introvert, but also for tolerating the outspoken extrovert. Thank you for recognizing when we were having a hard time, and then empowering us to talk about it. Thank you for every hug and high five you gave us as we walked through school. Thank you for the constant reminder that life is tough, but we are tougher. But above all else, thank you for inspiring us far beyond the four years at a school.

I hope you know, it takes someone special to do the job you do. Not everyone has your patience. I hope you know, you deserve to be celebrated every day of the year. Not just during an appreciation week. I hope you know, you feel valuable and very much appreciated. Because you are important. I hope you know that when times get tough, YOU are tougher. Because that’s what you taught us. And I hope you know, I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you.