"Kudos to our teachers and this is why"

I have always been a person who lives and breaths Education.

I'm an optimist by nature, hence, I truly believe that we can be activists and agents of change. One way to do that is in the classroom.

I'm writing this article because this is probably one of the most difficult years for anyone who works in Education. This is especially true if you are a teacher.

If you are a teacher you are probably wrestling with so many emotions.

Stepping into the classroom is always a little nerve-racking as well as exciting, however, this year, teachers are been bombarded with new expectations, new variables, new protocols, there is so much for them to learn.

At times, it can feel as if you are carrying the world on your shoulders.

Anxiety towards the unknown is a very normal and human reaction.

This is true under any circumstance and even more when you are the anchoring force and a role model for so many students.

If you have a teacher in your family, by now you are already familiar with the avalanche of emotions your spouse, mom, dad, aunt, uncle, child (or other) is dealing with.

It's true, teachers are heroes without capes, but they are also human.

With that in mind, I'd like to share a few messages to help support our educators as they embark on a new, very unusual, school year.

If you are a parent, please take a deep breath.

Whenever possible, try to problem solve, and when you need to reach out to your child's teacher, remember to remain patient and most of all, kind.

Remember we are all navigating new waters and that we are all in this together.

If you are an administrator, please remember to show extra flexibility, patience, and understanding Your teachers are doing the best they can and they might be struggling from time to time. This is a great opportunity to show good leadership. Get their backs!

Lastly, whenever possible, be respectful of their personal time.

Allow them to recharge so they can continue giving.

To my fellow teachers, I say, I am in awe of all of you.

You are brave, you are all so strong and you will be able to do this.

Take a deep breath and tackle one day at the time.

This enormous mountain will be climbed one step after another.

That is usually the case with great accomplishments.

They are never easy otherwise everyone would be able to do them.

You have navigated and conquered the unfamiliar Zoom world.

You are resilient.

You've got this!

Lastly, please know that we value you and we love you.

To the society at large, I say, please remember after this year goes by and you feel a sense of relief, do not forget who got you there.

Just food for thought...

Wishing everyone, teachers, students, parents, and administrators a healthy, happy, and successful school year!