Today, as we listened to morning announcements and I readied the ELMO for public speaking presentations, I got a little surprise: my name was called as the recipient of the “212 Degree Teacher of the Quarter”.
I was pleasantly surprised, although not “excited” enough to suit my first period (haha–I had to explain that what they were seeing WAS my excited face!). The honor made for a great day of students saying “congratulations!” as they walked by in the hall or came into the classroom. Since it’s an award chosen by the students in the Education Academy based on nominations from the student body, it means a little more because MY kids were behind it.
This is what the nominating students said “Mrs. Louden has helped prepare me for college and has taught me more things I will actually use in life than any other teacher I’ve ever had. She makes English fun and I have learned more about writing and analyzing what I read.”
Tell me that wouldn’t make your day (month/year)! I was most excited because the things these sweet kiddos said, were exactly the things I am trying to do! I know there are kids who didn’t exactly agree that I should win, but I shook that off today.
I’m reaching someone. And for today, that is good enough.
Take a minute today and remind yourself that you are good at what you do and that someone, even if they don’t say it or show it, appreciates what you do every day.
Be thankful for that.
I’m trying to write for 31 days straight with the Slice of Life challenge from Two Writing Teachers. Wish me luck!!
Midwestern Heart in Dixie 
What a gift! Congratulations on making a difference. 🙂
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Congratulations! Never miss an opportunity to celebrate yourself.
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Congratulations you have obviously made a difference!
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Congrats, that is just lovely! When it comes from the kiddos it is extra special!
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Congrats to you. And to all of us. But its always nice to hear that we made a difference!
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Yes, a little recognition and/or appreciation can go a long, long way. The students’ comment was heartfelt, warm, and rang true. What a gift you have given them–learning about real life.
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I love hearing stories about teachers being appreciated-about someone noticing the hard work and dedication. I love the line, “I’m reaching someone. And for today, that is good enough.” If we waited for others to notice what we do before we feel good about ourselves, we’d grow old fast! Noticing for ourselves that we’ve reached someone is so sweet. Thanks for a heartening slice. And thank you for being a teacher that cares!
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Congrats. What an honor
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Oh, how I needed this slice today! Cheers to you, and thank you for the encouragement.
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