I am passionate about my career as a public school teacher. It’s not just a job—it’s a vocation that fills me with pride as I guide your child’s future daily. The responsibility I carry is immense; I am a constant presence in your child’s life, second only to you, shaping their experiences, either uplifting or challenging them. I strive to foster joy, even when it might not seem that way to your child.
While I may not align with every policy in my district or see eye-to-eye with all my colleagues, I can say with confidence that anyone who remains in this profession beyond a year genuinely cares about your children. We work tirelessly and passionately for their growth and success.
I often sacrifice my lunch breaks to handle various tasks—whether making copies, reaching out to parents, mediating conflicts among students, or ensuring that every child feels included and supported. There are days when I find myself holding it until 2 p.m. simply because I’m busy attending to your kids’ needs. How many other professions require someone with multiple advanced degrees to ask for permission to take a bathroom break?
I’m a person who believes in the power of a hug. I will embrace your child even in challenging situations, like when they come to school with lice or ringworm. If an accident occurs, I won’t hesitate to step in, putting on gloves and helping them feel comfortable and secure. I begin every phone call to you with something positive, as I believe every child has their strengths. I will advocate for your child with fierce dedication, even at the expense of my social life.
I am accessible to you; you will have my cell number and can expect my responses to texts on weekends. I check my email late into the evening, and if you are facing hardships, I will step in to help—whether that means buying gifts for your family during the holidays or covering the cost of school trips out of my own pocket. I have made home visits and even attended birthday parties, believing wholeheartedly that it takes a community to raise a child, and I am honored to be a part of yours.
Public schools represent one of the last true democratic institutions in our society. Ideally, every child receives the support they need to thrive as they transition into adulthood. We send our kids off every day to learn and grow, navigating social complexities with the guidance of trusted adults.
However, in the wake of increasing school shootings, the environment has shifted from an unexpected tragedy to a grim reality. When I step into my classroom, my first thought is where we would hide in case of an active shooter. As a special needs teacher, I am fortunate to have a non-traditional classroom space, which offers some advantages. During our initial lockdown drill, I informed my students of the safest place to secure ourselves—where we would have a better chance of staying safe.
Here’s the hard truth: I will not be running towards danger if a shooting occurs. I will not use my body as a shield or risk my life unnecessarily. Those who know me might insist I would act heroically, but I have to be honest—I love your children, but I love my own more. I am a teacher, yes, but I am also a wife, daughter, sister, and mother.
When I chose this career, I never imagined I would need to risk my safety. A truly selfless individual would pursue a career in law enforcement, firefighting, or the military. I am realistic about my priorities. Each morning I go to work, my goal is to return home safely to my family at the end of the day.
I sincerely apologize, but I cannot promise to save your child.
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Summary:
This article delves into the profound responsibilities and emotional challenges faced by public school teachers. It highlights the dedication teachers have for their students while also acknowledging the harsh realities of safety concerns in schools. The author emphasizes personal boundaries and the need to prioritize their own family, ultimately stating they cannot guarantee the safety of every child in extreme situations.