TL;DR:
- A teacher can reignite a passion for teaching and learning by believing in you and caring about you.
- Read an appreciation letter to Dr. Cullen for making such an impact on Susan’s life.
- You are strongly encouraged to thank a teacher this week to let them know of their impact.
Growing up, I was fortunate to have amazing teachers who encouraged me to be the best version of myself. When I went to college as a first generation college student, I was uncertain of how it would all work. I was studying middle level education and taking math classes for my specialization. I ended up taking one course by a professor who has truly impacted my life.
Prior to taking her course, I did not know if I wanted to continue with the math specialization, but I felt something in my heart telling me to keep going. Following my heart was the best thing I could have done because she was the one who reignited my passion for teaching and learning. She believed in me when I sometimes didn’t believe in myself and genuinely cared about me as a student. This blog post is a way for me to say thank you to her because I would not be where I am today without her undeniable impact. She made an impact in my life, and I am not sure if she fully knows the extent.
I encourage you to thank a teacher this week and let them know of their impact. It may not seem like a lot, but I promise you that it does make a huge difference, especially this year when teachers sometimes feel like no one sees them. Click To TweetThanking a Teacher
Dear Dr. Cullen,
Thank you so much for impacting my life in more ways than one. You reminded me of the beauty of mathematics and the teaching profession in general. You cared about all of your students and truly wanted them to be successful. And you exemplified what it means to be a passionate and authentic educator, and your inspiration continues to pave a way for many students. You taught me a lot about how to teach mathematics, but, more importantly, you modeled what it looks like to be a life changing educator. When I think about the impact you have made, it brings tears to my eyes.
I know that, as a professor, you may not know of your actual impact, but you are making one each day. You helped me realize that I can do math and that, if I work hard, anything is possible. You are a professor who I will always remember and one who I will always speak highly of. I know you do not do it for the recognition, but please know that I will always remember the importance of being kind and being available for my students just like you modeled.
Thank you.
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If you are reading this, first of all, thank you for reading about one of my favorite professors who touched my life and helped mold me into whom I am today. I encourage you to thank a teacher this week and let them know of their impact. It may not seem like a lot, but I promise you that it does make a huge difference, especially this year when teachers sometimes feel like no one sees them.
I know I have felt that way this year, and thinking of professors like Dr. Cullen helps me remember my why which is to impact students and be a champion for them just like Dr. Cullen was for me. My favorite song recently has been “’Til You Can’t” by Cody Johnson, and one lyric that stands out is “If you got a chance, take it, take it while you got a chance.” I have the chance to say thank you now, and you do too. We need to take up any chance we have to express our gratitude to our amazing educators.
About Susan Jachymiak
Ms. Jachymiak is a 4th year teacher currently teaching 6th grade math. She is passionate about growth mindset and helping students achieve their full potential. She is also passionate about supporting new teachers and building a strong and uplifting Professional Learning Network.
