“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”. Albert Einstein
When my energy for teaching is getting low and I need a boost, a pick-me-up, a reason to get myself going, I think back to my years as an elementary school student and recall my teachers. Specifically, how did those teachers impact my life?
Whenever I run through these memories I am so thankful for the gifts that different teachers gave me. They shared their talents and time with me, encouraged me and introduced me to new ideas and ways of thinking. They were patient and kind. They inspired me.
My JK teacher, Miss M., was especially patient when helping me use scissors for the very first time. I remember being anxious and flustered but she stayed calm, wiped my tears away, and gave me the confidence to keep trying until I got it.
In grade 1, we had our first recess in the big schoolyard and Mrs. O. held my hand. She had such a kind and gentle voice, reassuring me that I could walk with her until I was ready to go play. It took weeks or maybe months before I left her side.
My grade 4 teacher, Mrs. P. nominated me to participate in a school public speaking event. I wrote about why I loved Canada. My mother had just become a citizen after living here for 25 years and I had written from my heart about wheat fields I had never seen, figure skating I had never tried, and the wilderness of the far north. It was no masterpiece but Mrs. P. recognized the innocent pride I had in my mother and my country.
It’s not that these teachers went out of their way to have perfect bulletin boards or highly engaging lessons every day. They accepted me and helped me. Thinking of my past teachers keeps me grounded in what is most important, a safe and caring learning environment. Students’ brains will be much more ready to learn if those conditions are met.
Asking students to perform an exercise of reflection can be a wonderful community building activity that can be used during a sharing circle. Ask students to think of someone who has helped them or encouraged them. Then ask for volunteers who are willing to share some details. Alternatively, this could be a journal writing activity. Thank you cards or letters could be created for students to share with their special person.
I moved a few times in my childhood so I haven’t had the opportunity to thank my teachers properly. If I could, I would want them to know that their resolve to be kind and fair awakened in me a joy of learning that I hadn’t known was there.
I hope you have had positive people and experiences in your life that you can use to help you through the long days, the difficult moments, and the frustrating situations that can leave you feeling drained. Remember those who would say, “You can do it, I believe in you”.
-Brenda
