Living In A World Without Pity

Jill May
4.17.08

When it comes time to choose a career, the education field may seem appealing. All of us have spent countless hours in the classroom interacting and relying on our teachers. What an honorable profession! When we were younger, I don’t remember ever hearing about a teacher who had failed to do his or her job.

However, it appears to me now that some faculty members take a lot more pride in their work than others. I understand that the financial circumstances wouldn’t be a great incentive, but if that is a problem, don’t become an educator in the first place. I believe that really good teachers teach because they love to interact with kids and help them grow. Unfortunately for the students, some teachers have chosen the incorrect profession.

I can count on one hand the number of teachers who have made a positive difference in my life, the people who have motivated and encouraged me to do my best. They engaged me, supported
my creativity and helped me think outside the box. I believe teachers should be leaders, influential and kind, willing to help when students ask for it.

When the teacher likes his or her job and is excited about what he or she is teaching, students become more willing to participate in class. They will follow suit. Good teachers set good examples.

Though some movies have educational value, watching futile videos and doing pointless busy work is not an acceptable teaching technique. Instead, create projects that engage our minds and challenge our mentality. Whether the students admit it or not, we all want to learn. It’s human nature to yearn for knowledge, but if the instructor simply hands out completion grades, there is no retention or connection to the subject matter at all.

This ineffective and improper method of “leadership” sends the message to students that they are incapable of learning, that they aren’t worth educating, that they only need to know enough to pass the test. Is this acceptable?
No, it isn’t.
I believe students should want to come to school. Regrettably, I cannot say that I look forward to every class I attend. I have had many teachers whom I admire and respect. Those teachers recognized when I was struggling and helped me to catch up. They demonstrate positivity and care about me as a person as well as a student.

It is really a shame for students to sit in a classroom and be told what they should know. Instead, the teacher should use that time to help the students who are struggling. School should be a place students can go to gain knowledge and understanding without feeling belittled by their supposed mentor.

For those teachers who do not aim to expand students’ intelligence, but who are simply inhabiting the classroom, perhaps reconsider your misguided actions.

So I would like to give my thanks to those teachers who
have inspired and encouraged me to succeed. You have made
an difference in my life, and to you I am eternally grateful.