The Few Who Can, Teach

Dear Maria,

Good morning! I am sure you feel the rising energy of our friends and colleagues as they know that they will awake tomorrow to the beginning of another school year. Probably some anxiousness, too, to go along with the optimism that comes with a new start.

Of course, I reveal my bias when I talk about classroom teachers even as I am no longer directly in the fray. A shame that that word should come to mind. But, as with so much of what goes on in this world, what is at heart a great giving of service seems nearly thwarted at every turn by forces beyond the schoolhouse door.

I think of how many times I have seen teachers stop what they were doing to take care of a child—hahaha, I know some of my former students may bristle a bit at the use of the word child, but I would remind them that I am my mother’s child even as I am now 60. Hahahaha! Her baby boy! Hahahaha!

You and I know the good intentions of those who will greet their students tomorrow. You and I know how potent the emotions. Does anyone else give of themselves so wholly and for other people’s children.

You may find it odd that I must own up to such a nearly complete letting go emotionally of what I tried to do to the best of my ability for 31 years. I am very much struck as well.

However, my respect and love for classroom teachers will not wane. And they need, and often do get, much support from those who work in the building with them. I am talking about the ones who lift them up rather than pushing them down.

As I listen to the incessant yapping about education—from, well, let me use the word adults—I am reminded of two words that appear in the classrooms. Safe Wall.

Safe Wall. I would if I could insist that every conversation directed at classroom teachers, either with them or about them, start with thanking them for accepting such a responsibility. Every principal, every district official, every board member, every citizen, every corporate spokesperson, every elected official, every pundit. Each and every time.

Safe Wall. Now, speak of how anything else is more important than those children who walk through the doors each morning.

Yes, apparently, I still give a damn. You know that to be true, don’t you? I did say “nearly complete”. Hahahaha!

Much good will happen this year between teachers and students as it has before. Bless them all.

I hope all is well with you and your family.

A little grouchy, but with much tenderness, yours, srk