I’ve always loved
celebrating education as a volunteer and a substitute teacher. It’s who I am. It’s what I do. Nonetheless, I never considered that my role
as a substitute really mattered all that much.
However, yesterday that changed.
I was sitting at the
teacher’s desk reading over the lesson plan for the day when a student walked
into the classroom. I said, Good Morning
and asked her if she was in my first period class. She
replied with a smile, “Nope. I just came
to say, Good Morning!” I’ve always
believed in the power of greeting others--- especially Good Morning. It sends the message that you acknowledge
who people are and the contributions they can bring to an environment. As a substitute, it is particularly
refreshing when students welcome you to their school. It builds a sense of connection. They’ve invited you to learn with them.
The morning continued as scheduled but at the
end of morning announcements the principal left students and teachers with a
challenge. “Continue to work hard and
until further notice, celebrate everything!”
His remarks made me think. I
know this pathway to teaching has been bumpy but I should find more value in
how I’m giving to the school even as a substitute.
As the day progressed,
I conducted class as usually. I took
attendance, collected homework, and encouraged students to complete their daily
assignment. The routine is always the
same and I’m a frequent substitute for this group. As students worked I kept the importance of CELEBRATION on my mind. So right before dismissing second block, I
introduced students to the power clap.
It’s a middle school memory that my teachers always used to celebrate
success. You simply bring your hands
above your head before you bring them together to clap. Then, on the count of
three everyone claps in unison. If it’s
done right, it’s fast, loud, and fun! It
turns out to be more fun when it’s new for students.
At the end of the day,
the teacher from across the hall came into my classroom. She said, “We haven’t really ever formally met but, you should know that students
can’t stop talking about how much they love when you are here!” Wow, this is a major complement coming from a
group of students.
As she spoke, I
replayed the day in my head trying to figure out what I had done to deserve
such a compliment. The power clap was new but I can’t say for certain that her
students were in my second block class.
All I can say is that there is no substitute for being invited to live
out your dream. There’s an authentic joy that fills my heart the
moment I enter a classroom! It’s a
celebration of recreating memories and honoring the teachers, mentors, and
friends that have changed my life. Thank
you so much for keeping me inspired!
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
