Blog

“What the public sees a teacher doing is akin to an iceberg and the small tip above the water that we see. There’s so much more than what is visible, heard or understood. Teachers are ultimately on the front lines every day – they are educators, innovators, motivators, coaches, disciplinarians, champions, encouragers, listeners, problem solvers and empathizers. I want to thank the teachers I get to work with for the reminder every time I see them engage with kindness when working with their students. As a parent, a former teacher, and coach, there is no greater gift than being able to see another person’s humanity and goodness. I want teachers to know that their positive energy and empathy have not only impacted me, but they also allow their students to feel known and loved.”

“There was a teacher in a cohort who always inspired me to further my interest and knowledge in scientific inquiry. She told me about a doctoral program that would be great for me. When I signed up for the program, she would always send encouraging words. The best moment of my graduation was getting a chance to thank her in person before we both walked across the stage. I want to thank her for encouraging and inspiring me to further my interest in science education. She taught me that in this work, I don’t only give information. I so often receive knowledge from teachers that will help me grow professionally.”

“One teacher has taught me so much by allowing me to witness how he seamlessly integrates technology into the outdoor learning space without sacrificing the many benefits of hands-on interaction with nature. He has curated resources that allow even his youngest students to use technology (something that they are always excited about) to learn in authentic ways outdoors. The students are afforded the opportunity to take ownership in maintaining and learning in the space. I want to thank him for providing me with an opportunity to witness the impact of the outdoor learning lab in a new way. Witnessing him teach always makes me excited for the future generations of boys who will be touched through his teaching.”

“I want to thank teachers for all that they bring into education every day. I am impacted by your positivity. I have learned that maintaining enthusiasm, keeping a positive mindset, and remembering why you became a teacher is contagious. This is the attitude needed to spark change throughout the school and in your classroom. I have seen firsthand the power of outdoor learning and how students carry over their learning into recess explorations and wonderings while transitioning between the indoors and outdoors when arriving and departing school. I have witnessed students choose ‘outdoor learning activities’ as an end-of-year reward for displaying excellent character – even over a movie or treat."

“There is so much that goes into teaching that goes beyond academic learning. I watch teachers be menders of relationships, fixers of clothes, tenders to ‘booboos’, and providers of food -- all needs that must be addressed before our students can even consider learning. I would like to thank teachers for pouring their heart and soul into what they do. I am always excited to see teachers grow and try new things, and I never stop learning when I get to watch them implement on their own.”