One of my most magical years as a teacher was when I got to loop with a special group of 7th graders into their 8th grade year. I didn’t have to spend nine weeks training them or going over procedures, learning their names, or learning where each child was on the academic scale. I knew them, so we got right to it. My students made huge gains that year in writing, in grammar, in life lessons. Last weekend, they graduated from high school c/o 2022! They invited their old 8th grade English teacher, and I was there! I knew they would be held in the gym or some other large area of the school before the pomp and circumstance began, so I came early, and made my way in there first. As kid/young adult after young adult ran at me and burst into tears, I remembered my why. Sometimes your why seems unseen many times. One boy, who was quiet, who was studious, who I had for two years in a row, could not stop sobbing. I promised him I hadn’t died; I was right here, and if he needed me, I would help!

They were the blessings to me, and as I drove away from graduation that night a little misty eyed, I remembered the life lessons they taught me. Teachers, although you are on stage, and rarely let anyone backstage, and most times you feel unseen, frustrated, or sad, remember your huge impact on kids who you may never even realize until years later that you made a difference in their lives.

Still, let’s listen to teachers. Pass legislation that will help retain our teachers who are feeling unseen. Give them wrap around services in their buildings. We need trauma informed specialists, more counselors, psychiatrists, smaller class sizes, and better working conditions. Our kids deserve it. Our teachers deserve it.

Teach On, Warriors. I’m rooting for you!

Katie