Why I Teach

I love my job, but by June the days seem too long and the students loud.  We are all ready for the break and to play outside more.  So when, on the last day of school, I get a heartfelt thank you, relief sets in.  I really did do something to make a difference.  In June it rarely feels this way.

During my graduate work, I really came to appreciate and believe in the effectiveness of keeping students in your class for multiple years.  Not all students, but for many I believe it can be highly beneficial.  So this year I kept three of my students.  I have no doubt it was the best for all of us.  But on the last day of school, after the bell had rung, I knew it was not only me who thought so.  It wasn't merely the words he spoke, but the expression of appreciation on his face and in his hug.  (And if you know 6th grade boys, hugs are hard to come by.)  He joked about assigning him to sixth grade again, but if I could have kept him another year, I truly would have in a heartbeat.  It is these moments that tie me not to my job, but rather to my vocation.  I love what I do.  And even on long June afternoons I will forever remember the power of creating positive relationships with my 'kids'.  Thank you K. for all you said and didn't say.