A Tribute to Teachers

As school returns, we decided to spend this month honoring all the teachers, past and present, for their hard work and dedication. They are often underpaid, under-appreciated, and overworked, and teachers show up in nearly every one of our life story projects. Whether it is remembering a teacher who made a difference in your life, or memories of mom's chosen career or your own, teachers are to thank for creating our future workforce and society of creative thinkers. 

Here are some recent project quotes about teachers that we loved to include: 

“I loved my grammar school teachers but Mrs. S. was the best of all of them. She married an Irishman, but she was Italian and could understand my rough English. My mother only spoke Italian at home. I struggled in class and I wasn’t an angel, either! I was mischievous and a bit of a joker, but most of my teachers liked me because they knew I was struggling.” - Bill J.

“My mother and aunt were both teachers, so I always had plenty of school supplies! In the third grade, my teacher gave out new crayons to all the kids who needed them, so I broke all my old crayons to get some new ones! I believe teaching is a very noble vocation. I could leave an influence on so many people and that impact could be felt for years.” -Michele S.

“My speech and drama teacher was very instrumental in my life. He taught me the importance of working hard, public speaking skills, and not to compare myself to others. Because of him, I’ve always been very comfortable in who I am. I’m in my high school Hall of Fame because of him." -Nick T. 

"As a teacher, I enjoyed creating lesson plans, and liked the social aspect of teaching. Middle school kids could be funny and sweet, but they could also eat you alive!" - Mary D.

“Believe it or not, before my junior year of high school, I went to summer school on my own to take American history and government, all because of a great teacher, Mr. Clay. He must’ve been good that I willingly got up early to go to his class… in summer!” -Joe E.

Do you have teachers in your life who deserve recognition? Are you an amazing teacher? These are stories worth saving. Pull out a notebook, a #2 pencil, and a Pink Pearl eraser and start writing. If you need help, let us know.