Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week has been inspiring. The entire week, I’ve been reading my colleagues praise their past teachers on social media and in the halls. It’s been humbling just to be aligned with such amazing educators.
This week has prompted me to reflect on the best teachers I’ve EVER had. Annnnddddddd…I’m participating in #edblogaday so I’m not getting out of it. I am not usually the “mushy” type. I don’t do well with tears. I may or may not be “emotionally constipated.” And to be honest, there are so many teachers that have impacted my life.
Over the years…
I’ve had some wonderful teachers. Mrs.Barbara Baker, my second grade teacher at Norfolk Highlands Primary was my first favorite. We had a tea party and discussed our favorite books. She still lives in my neighborhood, which is…you guessed it, Norfolk Highlands! Next, was Ms. Belson at Sparrow Road Intermediate. She taught me the foundations of grammar in the 5th grade..! I never got an opportunity to thank her. In high school, Ms. Joan Cochran, my 9th grade English teacher (who also taught my mom) and Dr. Chenault, my band director, made the greatest impact on me. In college, my history professors Dr. Coles and Dr. Smith lovingly guided me through obtaining a history degree at Longwood College (now University). Each of them left an impact on my life personally and professionally.
Today….
I want to honor a teacher that has truly helped me see my own potential and grow professionally. Mostly, she has taught me about what it means to be a leader. But in the process, I’ve also learned:
- how to navigate school politics
- play “devil’s advocate”
- never make promises I cannot keep
- cover my butt
- follow protocol when its most important
- critically analyze laws, data, and policy/procedures
- pick the phone up when necessary
- question everything (respectfully)
- work hard and respect others time
- hire good people and let them do their job
- be fair and transparent when making decisions
- most importantly base all important decisions on what is best for kids.
I struggled with whether or not to put her on blast. She’s humble and much like me she is “emotionally constipated” but she needs to know….
Bosslady G, you’ve taught me more than you could ever possibly know. Thank you for the providing me with the perfect balance of autonomy and guidance…
Thank you for understanding that I get bored and need new challenges…
I appreciate you.
More than you will ever know.
Cat,
Nice job sharing the teachers that had an impact on you. We might not know at any given time that we are influencing another.
I, like Janelle, enjoyed reading all the things you share about Bosslady G. She sounds like a fun person who is not afraid to take on injustice and make school a better place. What a great teacher for you!
Warmly,
Denise
Denise- she is a wonderful boss and has helped steer me towards great things. We are even In grad school together seeking our EDs. It’s so nice to have her support! She was able to read this post….and for the first time EVER she was speechless. Thanks for you comment and support!!
Really enjoyed your post and reading about your favorite teachers growing up. It sounds like you’re really fortunate to have such a great boss too!
I love this tribute to your past teachers but especially your mentor. I think you’ve highlighted something really important – we never stop finding awesome teachers to impact us!