What REALLY Means the Most to Teachers

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I know it sounds cheesy at best and cliché at worst, but the simple fact of the matter is, as a teacher, the time I spend with your children is my gift. So, let this list of some of the “best moments” in my teaching career serve as a true token of what teachers appreciate the most.

A Place to Grow…

A student who struggled with behavior found his place in the outdoor classroom. He worked and worked out there every chance he could. I saw him use problem-solving, hard work, research, and his own funds to take care of this part of our school environment.

Thank you for teaching me that we will always find our place, even if it is non-traditional and outside of the standard classroom, when allowed to explore our options.

Time to Talk…

In conversation, one of my 5th graders told me that she had Native American, or locomotive, ancestors. Trying to get to the root of this statement, I realized she was referring to the nomadic culture of the Sioux nation before they were forced onto reservations. I explained to her the misconception but then spent the whole day laughing because I never would have figured this misconception out from a standardized test.

Thank you for teaching me to take time every day to just talk.

Cookies Can Fix Almost Any Problem…

Well, not really the cookies but the fact that every year while two of my students who were sisters were still in elementary school, I received my favorite homemade cookies from them. Their mother would come by to say hi and they always came carrying those delicious cookies . . . right when I needed them the most (I think we all know that NEED for cookies I’m talking about).

Thank you for teaching me that the best gifts are always from the heart, and they are always right on time.

Music Brings People Together…

Believe it or not, music has made its way into my classroom more than once (and I’m not a music teacher!). Sometimes it grows out of a lesson, sometimes a student starts it and it just catches on, and other times it happens for no apparent reason. We sing. It has been “Take me out to the Ballgame,” Michael Jackson tunes, and Disney movie songs (just to name a few). It is always perfect and surreal and spontaneous.

Thank you for the incomparable joy that raising your voice in song with others brings!

Breaking Rules is Okay Sometimes…

There was a brilliant young man who really struggled with reading. His parents were supportive and he kept a positive attitude. It paid off. After he finished taking a standardized test with another teacher, he came running into my classroom to share his above-average results. It was an impulsive and enthusiastic and wonderful moment when he shared his joy at his achievement with me. He was so proud and I loved him for it!

Thank you for teaching me that every day is worth that one moment!

All of these moments and gifts have been the greatest of treasures. These are the natural gifts teachers live for. Parents, thank you for all you have done to support me, challenge me and appreciate me over the years. Your support is the greatest gift you can give to any teacher, but I guess a little chocolate never hurts either.

Much love,

Mrs. Clarke

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