In reference to the article and a growing societal concern over the "value" of our teachers, I think it's critical to understand the dynamic role of a teacher. Teachers are more than a conduit to shoving facts down our throats so we can regurgitate knowledge and pass examinations. Teachers (the good ones) challenge the way we think, help us find our passions, stir creativity, expand our interests, develop our social skills, strengthen our confidence, and make us all-round better global citizens. Here's a shout-out to those teachers (whom I can remember..) who've made such an impact on my life.
- Mr. Pie from U.S History made class fun! His jokes and lackadaisical approach to class challenged my "chinese" mentality of an all work, no play classroom setting. I realized I had to take life less seriously.
- Mr. Stewart from Health Class forever seared the image of gonorrhea as cottage cheese excreting from my urethra. Safe sex was no longer an issue.
- Ms. Everett from AP Language had us read an article about Ingrid Newkirk's will (read it here, for some amusement). Inadvertently or not, she introduced me to PETA, and I am forever grateful. Although, admittedly, I use to be quite the animal rights activist, I am more appreciative of the resulting epiphany: for 16 years, I did not think twice about where my food came from and the effects of my eating habits on not just myself, but the world around me.
-Miss Daube from AP World History was also my tennis coach; thus, I was able to see a different personality to teachers. Not only do they try to develop us holistically, but they're also fun and normal, trying to get through life like any one of us.
-Mrs. Quinto-Green from AP Calc 2 remains a constant reminder that selfless, good-hearted people really do exist.
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