Why My Mom’s a Teacher

Both of my parents are teachers and have been for decades. My mother recently sent me an email describing what keeps her teaching in a Title 1 California public school. Despite the ups and downs, she really enjoys teaching after all of these years. I hope her words inspire you as they do for me. We ALL can bring hope and change, no matter the situation. -MS

================================================================================

I just had one of those great experiences that you don’t ever want to forget.  This afternoon we were celebrating students who were reclassified as English Proficient on the front yard at the district office.  It was really very nice.

At the end, a young lady came up and asked that question that pops up now and then — “Remember me?”  I’m Jocelyn and you were my fourth grade teacher at Highland.  That was the best year ever.  I remember all the special things you did.  We panned for gold, sang songs, went to Muir Woods, and did a play.  I remember everything.”  Then she said, “Remember that yearbook you did with us at the end of the year.  You wrote that in 2006 you will graduate from middle school.  In 2010, you will graduate from high school. and in 2014, you will graduate from college.’”  She said well here I am, eight years later and I made it.  I’m graduating from high school!  She was literally jumping up and down.  Her mother came to take our picture together.  I asked her about college and she said she was going to go to a community college to become a chef!

Wow!  Talk about a heart-warming experience.  Now you know one of the many reasons I became an educator.  Not for the thanks, but to plant seeds that grow in the hearts of my students and come to fruition!

Love,

Mom