Depending on when you’re reading this, you’re either in the midst of, just missed or coming up to the next teacher appreciation week. I know this isn’t a big national holiday and it probably doesn’t even rank up there with sweetest day, but think about it, we have a lot of people in our lives to thank for all that we have become.
Many of us go about our daily lives and celebrate our victories, but sometimes we forget to say thank you to the people who help get us there. Of course, I’m a little selfish, because I know how hard the teachers at Springfield work. I know the stories of those who have become doctors, lawyers, moms, dads, great citizens, coaches and a whole list of amazing careers. And I, too, have my own story of having my own kids graduate from Springfield High School.
This past week, I was once again reminded of how lucky we are at the annual “I Make a Difference” breakfast, sponsored by the Toledo Area Educational Service Center. This tradition has been going on for many years. Top scholars from each school in the local area are offered an opportunity to say thank you to a teacher. I have been to this breakfast many times and the stories are absolutely incredible. This year, top scholars Ashton Graham and Sam Huang represented Springfield. They chose Mr. Howe as their teacher to recognize. They both stood up and gave amazing speeches about all the things that Mr. Howe did for them and all that he does for kids on a daily basis. As I heard Sam and Ashton give their speeches, I could see the glimmer in Mr. Howe’s eyes, because it’s nice to know that you make a difference and what you do everyday matters.
There were a lot of talented kids in the room along with Ashton and Sam, and I noticed one common theme. It wasn’t necessarily about the content. There were a wide variety of teachers recognized; band directors, coaches, foreign language coaches, debate team advisers, and in all the speeches it was more about how the person treated them. Each speech talked about the Mr. Howe’s of their school and how they treated their students as people, in times of need, and just as an inspirational leader.
I know we don’t often think about the people who made a difference, especially a teacher. They need that recognition now. They need to feel that what they do matters. So take some time this week and send a note to a former teacher letting them know your gratitude for making a difference in your life. Or send a note to one of your children’s teachers to tell them that what they do makes a difference, because the teachers at SHS are making a difference every day. A personal note to remind them is always appreciated.
