What it's all about

When I first read this blog topic I was racking my brain trying to think of a moment in this past week that made me feel like I was a "real" teacher. Yes, I feel good about my class when they are engaged and listen attentively. It makes me feel great when I know that they are really understanding the topic that we are covering. I love seeing good grades on the test!! However, none of these things can compare to how I feel as a teacher (and human being) when interact with my students on a more personal level. I was amazed the first time one of my students came to me with a problem and asked for advice. Most of the time I just listen and help them sort through the problem themselves. Usually, they know what the right thing to do is, they just need a little support. I encourage them to be the best person that they can be and to hold themselves to a high standard. Some of my students just need someone to take an interest in them. They need to know that someone cares and believes in them! It is a wonderful feeling to open an email from a former student who is now in college or to get a surprise visit from them! When they tell you how much they miss your class and how much they miss having you as a teacher, that's what it's all about!