I recently found Jenny on TWITTER. She's a fellow educator in Virginia who was teaching 5th grade and this year is teaching 1st. I was reading some of her posts from the past school year and I found this one and it really touched me.
My sister often asks me why I don't move to a closer, more affluent neighborhood. My answer is always the same, "These kids need me more." They have so much farther to travel to be where the affluent kids are. Plus, I am usually the only stable person in their lives. They can depend on me being there, consistently, every day. The "light bulb" moments are wonderful and I get so much love from them.
As Jenny says, "I'm amazed at the strength and perseverance shown by my students. I learn so much from them."
It always amazes me what kids can overcome. I've seen physical abuse, sexual abuse, alcoholism, drug abuse, anger issues, depression, apathy, and parents who don't want to be parents. Give these same kids just one person who will give them a little attention, respect and interest and watch them sore!
I'm so excited for the new school year. I'm excited to get to know my new students and see them blossom.
6 comments:
It sounds like you are blooming beautifully right where God planted you.:)
What a blessing!:)
You are an amazing teacher!
I really admire and envy what you do. It takes a great deal of patience, self awareness and love. Also, the ability to life up issues you can't control to God. I hope my children have teachers like you!
It's nice to see teachers out there with so much passion!
PS...I didn't know you were a twitterer...what's your user name? Mine is thopgood
I hope I can be that one person to someone. I'm sickened by the amount of kids that have come into my home with all of their belongings in trash bags. I don't like it when they leave, but they all leave with luggage. The reaction of the caseworkers is even more sickening when they ask me when I'd like the luggage back.
I agree so much with you! I worked in a very affluent school my fist 2 years, and now I work in a school that is much closer to the other end. Although it can be much more difficult at times, it is so rewarding to work with kids and mentor children who are not getting it at home. I feel like I am working where I am needed the most right now.
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