Appreciating the Teaching Profession

For over 30 years, the National PTA has designated one week in May to honor the teachers throughout the country who educate our children.

The teaching profession has become more challenging since I taught. There are more subjects to teach, more information to learn and more standardized testing. There are also more distractions for students and parents are busier than ever. Regardless, I don't believe there is a more rewarding profession!

Whether teaching elementary, middle or high school, all educators foster the character values stressed in Don't Be That KID! At School. They work each day to infuse concepts, such as respect, honesty, consideration and kindness, all while teaching core content subjects.

Can you name your favorite teacher? What made him or her special? My favorite teacher was Mrs. Schwartz in 2nd grade. She was kind; she was fair; she was supportive. Yet, she had high expectations and helped us achieve our potential, even at such a young age. The class certainly wanted to do well to please her, but soon we were working hard for ourselves. We were motivated and felt our class was special.

I learned reading, writing and arithmetic from Mrs. Schwartz but I also learned so much more. She always encouraged us to assist other students and it was through that experience that I knew, even then, that I wanted to teach. For 36 years, I woke up each morning excited to get to work, first as an elementary teacher and later as an administrator. A person can't be luckier than that!

Although May is designated as Teacher Appreciation Month, I hope you will thank teachers throughout the year, whether you are a student, a parent or a grandparent. Remember, they are your true partners.

The Don't Be That KID! At School Book and the Don't Be That KID! At School Resource Guide make wonderful gifts for your special teachers!