A new school year begins this week. I’ll watch as kids bounce down the steps of their buses and enter the school mere footsteps from my back door. Every fall, those children remind me of my own when they were in elementary school. They also take me back to my school days and spark memories of my favorite teachers. If you don’t mind, my little gold stars, I’d like to tell you about some of them. I hope my recollections inspire some sweet memories for you too. Honor your teachers by telling your kids or grandchildren about them, won’t you?
Janet Schafer
You were my 4th grade teacher at Blackman Elementary in Jackson, Michigan. I remember the day you invited all of us to come to your house. Now, by age 9, I was old enough to recognize the concept of teachers having lives outside of school, but actually going to my teacher’s home . . . wow. The funny thing is, I don’t remember a whole lot about that day. I have no idea how we got to your house, what we did once we got there or even what your house looked like. But I do remember feeling honored. You made me feel special another time when you sent me a card to congratulate me on my high school graduation. You kept track of such things? You found my new address (in pre-Internet days!). Once again, wow.
Barbara Eickholt
You were my world humanities teacher at Jackson’s Northwest High School. You introduced me to the best in classical literature, in history, in art and philosophy and got me ready for success in college. As if that weren’t enough, you recognized, challenged, affirmed and encouraged my writing abilities (such as they were back then!). And you did even more than that. You made me feel seen, and you gifted me, your “little elf,” with your friendship. Wow.
Frances White Ewbank
You were my freshman English professor at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana. Not only were you an exceptional scholar, you were an example of empathy. I remember arriving in your classroom on the day of our first exam. Do I remember what the test covered? No, I do not. Here’s what I do recall. You walked into the room, which fell silent immediately. As blue books were passed from desk to desk, you went to your lectern and bowed your head. You prayed for all of us. I suppose some would have taken this as a sign that we were about to take a grueling exam, but I felt honored by your empathy and kindness. Once again, all I can say is wow.
I’d love to hear about your favorite teacher. Please take a moment to share. Thank you!
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