I did, without my family cheering for me. I remember taking days to open a package from St. Edward's University, for fear of finding a rejection inside. Instead, there was a scholarship offer for the first year. I now teach second grade in an air-conditioned room, away from the sun and the torturous field work I endured. I look back and wonder why I became a success while some of my friends still toil for minimum wage.
Teachers play such an important role in our students' lives.
We influence their love or hate for school. We need to understand our students. Many come from impoverished homes. Some must work to help the family make ends meet. They see work as their first priority.