Thank A Teacher!

cc licensed flickr photo shared by clevercupcakes

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” ~Henry Brooks Adams

This marks my 50th blog post. A milestone for a reluctant writer. Yet, the accomplishment is not mine alone. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of those around me: my friends, mentors, colleagues, and professional learning network (PLN). Without their guidance, support, and words of encouragement I would not be writing this 50th post, let alone blogging in the first place.

There are so many people to thank, that in listing them I fear I will leave someone out – but I do want to publicly thank a variety of people. (Please forgive me if I inadvertently leave someone off this list.)

Rich McGrath and Linda Weir – Thank you for reassuring me that I had a voice in educational blogging, even when I was uncertain as to what that would be. Your continued support, mentorship, dedication to the field of education and friendship inspires me daily.

Fellow colleagues at Northwest AEA – Thank you for your kind words about my blogging efforts. Your comments have filled me with the desire to continue writing and sharing.

My #irvinghawks Techies – @kj4ed @craganesl @hansenpam @Poulsonj @KBoelelman @duriod @lillied2011 @ShLoeMaurer @npnes – Your excitement for continued learning in order to enhance your students’ educational experiences has brought me much joy. Up next … sharing your own voice!

My Twitter PLN – A blogger’s voice is a tiny pebble thrown into the water. The message, or ripples that follow, are carried along by its readers/followers. Thank you for the retweets and recommendations of my blog posts as well as your exemplary examples of educational blogging. I’ve learned so much from each of you! If I leave anyone out of this list is is an oversight: @sai_iowa @rchmcgrth @JimKnight99 @Grade1 @gret @flourishingkids @teachingwthsoul @angelamaires @shannonmmiller @johnccarver @Mollybmom @TheHomworkDog @pharesr @Saskateach @BarbaraDay @cyndiejacobs @ToddWhitaker @iateachr @Mrskmpeters @eolsonteacher @mrsdkrebs @JoAnnJ68 @euenoconor @barrete @butwait @cmcgee200 @seburnt @michellek107 @gcouros @ewilliams65 @JillBromen (If you feel I’ve left you off of this list – please just send me a quick DM and I’ll quickly add it!)

And last, but not least – 110 5th grade bloggers. The simple fact, if kids can blog – so can I. Their blogging efforts over the course of the last few months has brought new meaning to authentic learning. Observing each classroom of 26+ students at 100% engagement when they blog, their compassionate spirit in helping others, and their ongoing enthusiasm provides such a strong example to follow!

Each of you have influenced me in one way or another. Blogging has opened up a new world of collaborative sharing. It has given me an opportunity to take my reflective nature to another level and it continues to helped me to learn and grow each day. I’m looking forward to summer and a little more time on my hands to blog.

In keeping with the “Thank You” theme, I’m reminded that the week of May 2-6, 2011 is Teacher Appreciation Week in the United States. It is a week set aside for us to honor and say thanks to the educators who have touched our lives and the lives of students today.

How can we thank our dedicated educators in the field? How can we recognize the inspiration of many from our past?

• Social media is opening up the world of communication. Adults, why don’t you search for a favorite teacher from your past on Facebook. Sending a quick message to letting them know how they touched your life would mean so much to a teacher! Or a message by mail, phone or in person is always appreciated.
• Do you have kids in school? How about looking into how you can volunteer your time at your child’s school? There are many things parents can do to assist their child’s teacher either during the school day or at home. Providing a strong partnership with your child’s teacher and school not only sets a fine example of service to others, but shows your child you care about their education.
• Many schools are involved with simple fund-raising efforts – collecting box tops, milk lids, soup labels, ink cartridge recycling, etc… Many of us purchase these items anyway. Check with your child’s school or a school in your area. The extra funds are always appreciated.
• A majority of teachers spend money out of their own pockets for materials to use at school. Don’t forget your child’s classroom as a worthy place to make a donation. This simple act of kindness will put a smile on a teacher’s face!

What are other ways to thank teachers? Let’s generate a helpful list for each other through the comment section of this blog.

Last year, through my global connections on Twitter, I was reminded that many countries have Teacher Appreciation Days. This Wikipedia entry outlines many of the Teacher Appreciation Days around the world. The ideas generated now can be helpful as others honor their teachers throughout the year!