Enough.

I try to avoid the comment sections of various news stories on Facebook and new outlets, but sometimes it is a little tricky. I have learned to ignore the naysayers in many areas of life, but sometimes that is not always possible. In recent weeks, it has been frustrating to see the harsh opinions that have been brought to light regarding teachers. The narrative shifts regularly from offering thanks to pointing fingers and blaming for things that are well beyond my circle of control. 

In 1998, I was a fresh-faced newly turned twenty-two-year-old who decided to apply to MUN’s Faculty of Education. I was, to my delight, admitted, and the rest is history. In 2021, my forty-five-year-old self decided to return to university in pursuit of an M.Ed. That adventure has been enjoyable thus far! (When that is done, I have begun daydreaming about an M.A. in Creative Writing or Journalism.) As a mid-career teacher, I feel very fortunate to still love what I do, and I have plans to enjoy the remainder of my days as an educator to the best of my ability. 

All through my schooling, I always looked up to my teachers with reverence. I feel very fortunate that I, too, have experienced some meaningful connections with the countless individuals I have taught through the years. Somewhere along the way, however, the script regarding how teachers are perceived changed. I cannot fathom why people always resort to “teachers get summers off” when trying to bring some relevancy to their arguments. In light of the recent developments in the Covid-19 pandemic, the fact that some have been working from home has caused many to become irate and spew hateful things. I know I speak for many when I say we try our damnedest each and every day to create relevant and meaningful learning experiences - regardless of where instruction occurs. 

If you have made it this far, please continue to hear me out. You do not need me to tell you what teachers and every single member of the school staff do matters every day. It is not always easy but it is always worthwhile. 

Readers, I challenge and encourage you to share a post or send a message of positivity to your child’s educator. A simple thank you or a kind word can mean more than you could possibly ever know. Sometimes it really is the little things in life.

To the teachers who have worked with both of my children past and present, thank you. From the bottom of this Mom's and fellow-teacher's heart, you are seen and you are heard.