Do You Remember Your Favorite Teacher?
Back when my neighbor called me a worthless teenager that played my music too loud.
When it comes to teacher appreciation, I think about all of the teachers I had in my own life. A handful of teachers quickly comes to mind. They were the ones who helped shape my path. But if I am only able to choose one, I think I must choose a teacher that set me straight my sophomore year: Mr. Buttars. He believed in me, and made me feel special, smart, and important. He let me know that I could overcome, move-on, and be whatever I wanted to be. He helped me realize that it was important to be the best version of me I could be. He taught me what the word potential meant in a holistic way, and that I could do anything I wanted to.
Teachers Impact Their Students
My very first teaching job.
I didn’t always want to be a teacher. I was led there by circumstance. However, I am grateful everyday that I was guided to a teaching career. Led to a career that has made an impact in the lives of those little humans I deeply loved (and still love) with all of my heart.
As any teacher can tell you, teaching isn’t easy. It is a time-consuming career filled with moments of thankless tasks and endless meetings. But teaching is also filled with love, compassion, gratitude, and fun. Teaching is a career that can change people’s lives —- we hear those stories all of the time. Teachers do make a difference!
A Study of Influential Teachers
A new survey done by Preply finds that one teacher truly has a lasting impact on Americans. Can you remember who that teacher was for you?
Interesting Facts from the survey include.
77% think about the teacher who impacted them most at least once a year.
42% haven't spoken to the teacher who impacted them most since they were in their class, but 45% want to reach out to their most impactful teacher.
The top three things favorite teachers have helped their students with outside of academics are combating shyness, mental health struggles, and adjusting to being new at school.
Half of those surveyed shared that their favorite teacher went beyond the curriculum, sharing details of their personal life and fostering a deeper connection.
Key Findings Include.
In the classroom, 84% say they had more good than bad teachers.
Over half, 61%, have never told their favorite teacher how much they meant to them.
High school is when 40% have their favorite teacher.
Outside of academics, 37% of favorite teachers make up for neglectful parents.
Ms. Frizzle, Mr. Feeny, and Miss Honey are people’s favorite teachers in popular culture.
Teachers Make a Difference
“Beyond teaching styles and subjects taught, educators everywhere hold a powerful influence over shaping the lives of students since they spend so much time in the classroom.” Teachers change the world!
Remember teachers, you make a difference. It is pretty amazing that 77% of respondents to the Preply study acknowledged that they think about their favorite teacher at least once a year! Heck, it has been over four decades since I have seen Mr. Buttars, yet his influence lives on in my life. He showed me a path forward and gave me the power to forge it.
Teachers, keep doing what you are doing! You matter!
Help keep the memories of your classroom alive by preserving memories!
