If there’s one profession that does not receive even 10 percent of the credit it deserves, it’s teaching. Working in an elementary school, I’ve come to realize just how much goes in to organizing just one school day. Not only that, but these educators have to take time to grade assignments, prepare and plan for the days to come, and are often involved in other groups/clubs along with whatever else goes on in their personal lives. I have always appreciated my teachers and the opportunity to receive an education. But working within the school system has deepened my appreciation ten-fold.
What people don’t seem to understand is that those who decide to go into education decide to take on the challenge of shaping the minds of the future. Their entire profession is to help children and young adults expand their minds and prepare them for the real world. They help create the artists, historians, activists, engineers, scientists, writers, and humanitarians of tomorrow. They help create the future.
Why teachers aren’t highly revered, like doctors or engineers, is beyond me.
I have been blessed to have had some incredible educators who have provided me with fantastic opportunities I would not have received otherwise. Their faith in me and my work, as well as their passion for teaching, have impacted me in the greatest way. Without their confidence in my ability to learn, without their challenges, I would not be where I am today. It started in elementary school, with a teacher who saw my potential and led me to be tested for a higher level course of study. It followed with that program’s educator introducing me to a middle school that would challenge me similarly. It continued with a middle school teacher whose passion for English rubbed off on me and who showed me the path to a college-preparatory high school program. It was that high school program that provided a tough academic challenge and teachers who were passionate about their respective subjects and their students. It was through all of this motivation and hard work that led me to be the first one in my family to attend college and to enter with a sophomore standing.
However, it’s also important to note that each child learns differently and learns at differing paces. But that’s part of the reason why educators are so incredible: they realize all of that. Countless times, I’ve seen teachers dedicate their free time to help a struggling student understand with the utmost patience and care. Various times, I have been that student. But they never gave up on me. That, above all else, I believe is what always kept me going. It’s what has kept thousands of students going.
Being an educator, at any level, is one of the most selfless professions to exist. These individuals do not work nine-to-five days. They are rarely motivated by large paychecks. They are constantly changing and tweaking their lessons to fit their students in the best way possible. They are the quintessence of patience. They serve as role models, mentors, and, in some cases, serve as the only stable adult figure in a child’s life. My success is their success. I will never be able to thank them enough.
