Thank You Teachers!

I readily admit I have little experience teaching school at any grade level. I was the Math Superstar volunteer in Emily and Ian’s fifth grade classes. But the extent of my formal teaching experience was at seminary where I taught middle-school music for two semesters at a local private school. I remember being paid ten dollars an hour plus $1,500 for coaching the high school football team one season. (I was a brilliant defensive coordinator—a so-so music teacher.)

What I remember from both experiences is how difficult teaching can be and how intimidating students can be to inexperienced teachers—even parent volunteers and big, tough, defensive coordinators. But also it can be stressful trying to remain faithful to the subject matter as the organization wants it taught.  Teachers today are graded and evaluated even more than their students; their careers depend upon their performance and remaining cool in the face of adversity. Every snap judgment, even thought and word is subject to review. It is not an easy job.

It is with these factors and many more in mind that St. Andrew’s participated in Teacher Appreciation Day at Terry Parker High School this week. I hope we never fail to thank our teachers for the jobs they do educating our young people and preparing them for the life ahead of them.

If you are a teacher—Thank You—and if you know a teacher, please give them our thanks, for the work they do and the decision they made years ago to be an educator of young people and a shaper of leaders, without whom we would have no hope. 

I also give thanks for Susan Yeoman and her family and all who represented St. Andrew’s in this outreach to Terry Parker High School. If you are interested in this ministry please talk to Susan to see what is planned next and how you might participate.

Peace,

Father Mark