This past Monday, October 5th was World Teacher Day. Sadly, I don’t think much fanfare was made or publicized for the hard work, long hours, and limitless energy that all teachers logged and dedicated over the course of these past six months.  

As a teacher, I would like to say THANK YOU!

I would like to clarify who I am including by “teachers.” I think for most of us this year has changed how we see teachers and educators – I don’t think many have the now traditional image of an individual with a warm presence in a classroom space with desks, tables and chairs. As a result of COVID-19 and our quickly changing climate, we have come to quickly realize that how (and, I would argue who) we see a teacher has changed.

That being said, below is only a small list of how I have broadened my view of a teacher:

Parents

Caregivers

Grandparents

Family members

Siblings

Neighbors

Staff

Administrators

Cashiers

Cooks

Waitstaff

Activists

Healthcare workers

Government organizations

Local, state, and national leaders

Mother Nature

Books

Protesters

YouTube

Zoom

Family pets

Patience

Asa parent and caregiver, I would like to say THANK YOU!

Regardless of the how or the why – every person and everything on this list has taught me something over these last few months. For better or ill. Positive or negative. In the spirit of community or disconnection.  It has been an invaluable education that has altered how I see and participate in the world. I have made mistakes, learned new lessons, and discovered more about myself and a new-found appreciation for quiet, tenacity, and craft ideas with egg cartons and play-doh.

As a fellow individual, I would like to say THANK YOU!

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