I’ve been giving this question a lot of thought.
Although I have many answers, most of all, I love our ability to empower students. Whether it be through literacy, or through the personal connections we make, we have the capacity to raise confidence and self esteem, to impact the way our students feel about themselves and their place in the world.
When I work with struggling readers, I look forward to the day when the students realize that letters combine to create words. That day they make the connection that the words on the page hold meaning. That day they gain a skill they will use every day forward.
When I work with students in the classroom, I revel in the opportunity to share my love of writing. I enjoy giving them strategies to help make writing a little easier and potentially more enjoyable, too.
When I work in my role as assistant principal, I appreciate the time I have with those children who struggle with behaviour. I know that the behaviour is their way of communicating anger, frustration or even sadness. I am reminded of this quote: “The kids who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving ways.” I appreciate the opportunity to connect with these students: to allow them to express their emotions in a safe environment, to show them that they are cared for and valued, and ultimately, to show them their own self-worth.
What an awesome influence we hold. This is why I love to teach.
What strikes me most about teaching is when the ‘light comes on’ in the beautiful eyes of students as they discover something they never knew. They will never forget it.
Those are certainly wonderful moments!
Thanks for asking. I love the light their eyes, the “Oh, I get it!” … the wonder of learning, the love of words (reading & writing), the chance to make a difference that lasts forever.
Teaching is indeed life giving: to students and to teachers. You have given life to that central truth in teaching.