Many people don't understand why anyone would ever want to be a teacher. So many times I have been asked, "Why are you a teacher??" or even "What is your favorite part about teaching?" Today, I got to experience the reason I am a teacher and my favorite part about teaching.
In Texas, students have to take the TAKS test starting in 3rd grade. In 5th grade, they have to pass both the reading and math test in order to go to middle school. Since they have to pass it, they get three chances. Once in April- if they don't pass it then then they take it in May. If they don't pass it then, they go to summer school and take it at the end of June.
One of my students (we will call him Joe) has worked so hard this year. He didn't pass either test last year, so it was going to be a big deal for him to pass this year. He passed reading on the first try and I was so proud of him. However, he failed math. He had to go to extra math tutoring for two weeks and then took the test again. He worked so hard and was so nervous about it. He didn't want to go to summer school and really wanted to go to middle school!
Well, the results came in today. I got the joy of calling Joe up to my desk. I whispered in his ear that he had passed the second test and didn't have to go to summer school and would be going on to middle school. His eyes got huge, he looked at me and said, "SERIOUSLY?!?!?" and I said, "YES!". He then threw his arms around my neck and screamed "OHMYGOSH!!!!" He then jumped up and down screaming "YES!!" He then paused and looked at me and said, "You're really serious, this isn't some kind of joke??" I said, "YES, I'm serious!" and he said "I DID IT!!" and then did cartwheels around the room! I was so happy for him that I didn't even try to stop him. He then started tearing up! Oh, it was such a precious moment.
Another student, we will call him Bob, has also worked so hard this year. I have encouraged him all year and told him that not only can he pass, but I expect him to pass. He didn't pass any the first time.... he passed both the second time! He found me after school to tell me and couldn't stop smiling. :)
THAT is why I am a teacher. For those moments when these kids who are in such a low economic area realize that they are capable of achieving amazing things. I love that moment, and that look in their eyes. I love seeing their smile when they realize they can achieve things they put their mind to and I love knowing that I helped them get there. Teaching may be a straining job, but it is the most rewarding job out there and I don't regret for a second that I chose it as my profession.
"A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."
2 comments:
I have found your blog and I do not know you, but I love your blog. I went to The University of Alabama and graduated there in 2004. I, too, love it in Tuscaloosa and wish I could go back sometimes, but I sure cherish the moments I get to go back to visit and football! ROLL TIDE ROLL! It is so odd that I read this post of yours, as I have been contemplating going to teach when I have worked in Marketing for over 5 years and now work for a medical billing company, but reading this pretty much made my mind up, I am applying for those teaching jobs - woo hoo! Thank you and I really admire you and all your courage. I will keep following you! Take care!!
teaching is so rewarding! good luck in your job search! there will be days that you ask yourself "why am i doing this?!?!?", but then there are days that make every bad day worth it! good luck!
Post a Comment