I've never been one to let my teachers into my life. In high school, I was too focused on getting my work done and getting out of class. I struggled a lot in high school, not with grades, not with friends, but with life in general. I handled these things on my own because…I don’t know, I guess because I could. Eventually, all of these issues caught up to me, and I couldn't juggle my personal life and school at the same time and still be okay, so I gave up on school a little bit. I don't know if I ever formally thanked you for the break you gave me during that time, or if you even realize how much your understanding meant to me while I was crashing and burning, but you deserve a thank you, and I hope this letter is sufficient.

I remember during an especially difficult period of time I was skipping classes, coming to class late, sleeping in class and not getting work done. I deserved detention, but instead you talked to me. You listened to what I had to say, and even though talking has never really my strong point, I opened up a little. That simple conversation not only changed my attitude, but it also made me gain trust and respect in you. I would have accepted and understood if I had been assigned a detention, because yeah, I admittedly deserved it. I was having a rough time with other teachers and classes, and I didn’t want to see the good in you guys. But I’m glad ya did, because it made for a much less miserable year. Thank you for that.

A quality of yours that always motivated me to keep working and coming to class was knowing that you came to school every day loving your job. You have a passion not only for what do, but for your students as well. This is always shown in the lessons and projects you assign. You allow us to be creative, artistic, musical and show our talents in ways that expand our understanding of the material. It's a fun way of learning. Your passion for what you do goes beyond the school day. I bet you worry about your students, hope for your students, and wonder how they’re doing, even when you’re at home. You truly care, and you never give up on anyone and that kind of compassion goes a long way.

Thank you for letting me know that you were always there as an unbiased listening ear, and letting your classroom be a place of comfort when there was nowhere else to go. Thank you for having a sense of humor, knowing how to do your job right, and knowing what to say at the right times. I think a lot of people believe that the role of a teacher is only to teach the material day in and day out, but that isn’t true. To be a teacher, you have to teach and be a role model, yet care and to make an impression. You did all of these things. I don’t think there are words in the English language that could possibly thank you enough for your understanding throughout my Senior year of high school. You are an incredible teacher, and I am honored to have been able to sit in a classroom taught by you. Know that you are appreciated

Sincerely,
-A Thankful Student