When it comes to teaching it’s easy to think teachers aren’t doing enough. Some might even say teachers should be doing more. My question is, how much is enough?
As a teacher I know how much time I spend preparing material, teaching that material, evaluating the performance of the students, giving useful feedback to allow learning on both sides, and keeping it all together. So, as you can see, it takes a lot of work and effort to work the teaching and learning cycle. To some this might seem like a lot, to others this is not enough. When teaching is your passion, you don’t see that as an overload, you see the process as growth.
Not too long ago I decided to take some private lessons because I believe some students perform better when they have a personal educator, and really, we become their number one supporters. I believe in the power of connections. Connecting with our students and helping them grow and thrive becomes a personal accomplishment as well, that is why I have no limitations when it comes to preparing my classes. Truth be told, I enjoy it.
Not too long ago I had a person who bluntly told me teachers get paid too much for what they do. I have to tell you, my hands tremble as I write this. How can a harsh statement like that be made? Why is it so easy to criticize the work of a teacher? Most teachers I know go the extra mile to guide their students, they facilitate their knowledge so that new learning experiences can be created.
Why is it that the work of a teacher can be undervalued so easily? Are we as teachers not standing up for what we do? We show up every morning or evening to teach, we are consistent and diligent; make no mistake, we are humans, we get sick and miss a day or two, nevertheless, we ask subs to teach our prepared lessons. So, why is it so easy for some to make such statements?
I am here to tell fellow teachers, we ought to value our own work. We must continue. I believe teaching is a foundation that will help some closed minds to change their way of thinking. We must keep going forward. This derogatory comment has to be turned into something positive. We are worthy, we are the light and home to many great minds who will change our world for the better, and that is priceless.