Dear high school teachers,

Let me start off by saying thank you. I was very lucky to have people in my life so dedicated to their jobs. I was fortunate to learn from each of you. There is something I took away from each class. Some good and some bad. Most of you taught me lessons that I will carry on throughout the rest of my life. I graduated with more than the grades on my report card. I left with values and life lessons that could never be graded.

I am writing this letter now because I did not realize the impact you had on my life until you were all gone. Let this be a reminder to all of your current students: you are spoiled. Most of you teachers were adults in my life that I knew cared about me, and wanted the best for not only me, but all of your students.

I want to thank you for being difficult teachers. I now appreciate all of your challenges because it prepared me for the level of college work. At the time, I hated when I had a paper and two tests due on the same day, but now I am grateful for those sleepless nights. It was conditioning for my higher education.

This letter is addressed to all of my teachers. Even the ones that I did not “like” in class. You helped me focus on the content of the class and not the teacher. It is impossible to like everyone. Not every professor is going to be my favorite. Same goes for the subject. I may not be interested in the course content, but that doesn’t excuse me from not doing well or trying in the class.

For the teachers who truly loved their job, thank you. It was noticeable that you cared about the subject matter and that you wanted each of your students to care as well. You respected your students, and in return you gained respect from them. I never wanted to let you down. You helped me try very hard in every aspect of your class, and you expected nothing less. Thank you for motivating me to try my hardest with all parts of school. You all helped me become a better student in the quick four years I had in high school.

Thank you for guiding me in the right direction, for helping me find what I love, and teaching what you love. All of your students have and will benefit. I wish you the best of luck with this new school year. Try not to miss me as much as I miss all of you.

Thank you,