Another Teacher Appreciation Week is here. I think that is good. Teachers should be appreciated.
I find it remarkable that most adults--regardless of their background or story--can reach into their childhoold and remember a teacher who made a difference in their life. This is a wonderful thing. I had a few teachers that made a big difference in my life. One of them was in second grade, and her name was Mrs. Kapp (at the time).
A few years ago, I had the privilege of attending her retirement party. Mrs. Mullins (new name, same person) taught in the same school for 37 years. The majority of those years were spent teaching kindergarten. The school cafeteria was jam-packed with current and former students whom this special woman had touched through the years. People came out of the woodwork for the event. There were children running everywhere. It was complete bedlam. A double-digit line formed at the microphone to give tribute to this amazing woman. For someone who has worked in schools for more than twenty years, it was an absolutely thrilling experience. It was like being at a carnival.
I was in the middle of this event when it struck me. This teacher’s influence was broad and deep, and the only thing she did was show up to work each day and treat every child like the most important person on the planet. She was a leader. I was in second grade when she was my teacher, and down through the years it is Linda Mullins who comes to mind whenever I am asked to “think of your favorite teacher.” Why was she my favorite? Because she made me feel like I was her favorite, and judging from the size of the crowd in that cafeteria, she must have made all her children feel that way.
I had the privilege of teaching for ten years in three diverse settings in a variety of grade levels and subjects. Those were wonderful years. I can only hope I was able to reach and make a difference in the lives of some of the students I taught, but it was great just to have that opportunity. I will never be a Mrs. Mullins, but now I have the responsiblity of supporting teachers and other adults that are committed to the learning and development of children in the public schools of Lebanon, Oregon, as their superintendent. I consider this to be important, noble, and serious work. I just might have the best job in America, and I hope this week that every teacher feels the same.
Thanks for making a difference.
