A good teacher is much more than an educator. They are a role model, a grown up that can be trusted, possibly even a friend. The importance of this cannot be understated.
Having the one or two teachers I liked was so helpful when I needed a sounding board, or an adult in my corner. And I’m lucky enough to have had two very supportive parents throughout my life.
I can’t even begin to conceptualize how important, how lifesaving, a good teacher is to an individual less fortunate than I.
A child with no one listening at home might have no one to help them when they find themselves in dark places. Teachers are the last line of defence, the ultimate safety net, for children with nothing to lose.
For this, teachers deserve all the appreciation they get! Wait, scratch that, they deserve even more.
