There is nothing that infuriates me more than when someone says “anyone can teach,” completely neglecting the value of teachers and the strength it takes to be one. Teachers enter the profession not for the money, but for their passion for education. Hearing the remarks and comments that come out of students’ mouths in the classroom baffles me. All educators deserve to be treated with respect, kindness and consideration. As students, we have no idea what they have been through to get to where they are.
There are so many compassionate and understanding teachers who receive nothing but disrespect and aggression from their students. This issue often perpetuates to the point where teachers are pushed out of their professions, unable to find the joy in teaching anymore. I know many teachers who are genuinely happy to help and just want everyone to succeed and learn to their full potential. Keep in mind that teachers are not forced to be here; they come willingly.
While it doesn’t hurt, students don’t need to shower their teachers with gifts every day to show their kindness and care. Oftentimes, just walking into class and telling your teacher “good morning” or asking them how they are is enough to make their day. When leaving the classroom, it’s always nice to thank a teacher for the class and tell them to have a good day. None of these actions require a lot of effort, but a little bit of kindness goes a long way. Again, we don’t know what our teachers have been through, so instead of talking back or yelling, hold a respectful conversation with them.
I find it incredibly shocking that students are not the only ones guilty of disrespecting teachers, but also the district itself. One would think that the people who hired our teachers and are in charge of education for the entire district would appreciate their employees more than they do. Teachers do so much and only get one designated week a year to appreciate them; most of the time, the school board only rewards them with cheesy and frivolous gifts like a small bag of candy with a stupid pun.
Some of the most undervalued teachers I have encountered are veteran teachers, as in teachers who have been in education for 10 or more years. The commitment to their career is admirable and should be celebrated, but they are sent nothing more than an email of acknowledgement or a cheap certificate. I know multiple teachers who have been at West for 15 plus years and always come in happy and excited to teach, despite the possibility of being exhausted and burnt out.
I dream of becoming an elementary school teacher, but I hear so many negative comments about the kids’ behavior and the condescension that comes from the district, which scares me a bit. However, the joy and confidence I find in teaching keeps me going and push me to see the light. Teachers have such an impact on our lives, and should be remembered for years to come. They are heroes wearing a cape of commitment and understanding, leading their students to greatness.
