To My favorite teacher,

You may not realize how much you impacted my life, but I’m about to tell you just how much of an impact you had on my life.

It all started in 10^th grade English when I walked into your class for the first time, excited for a new year. I was a bit skeptical because some upperclassmen told me that you were a tough teacher. It wasn’t until later that year when you recruited me for the yearbook staff did I start to realize that my life would be forever changed. You opened my eyes to a whole new set of possibilities and opportunities. You showed me that I could have a strong passion for something other than cheer. My passion for writing soared, and I found a creative outlet while preserving the memories of my peers. I found myself jumping right in and finishing my assigned spreads way before they due. I even stepped out of my shell a little bit and was able to help other people finish their spreads and take on other spreads. You taught me how to get over my fear of speaking in front of people. I had finally found something that I could do right and also do well. You brought out leadership qualities within myself that I didn’t know I had. You pushed me to be a better student and writer, and then you pushed me out of my comfort zone when you made me design editor. I can never thank you enough for pushing past what made me comfortable. I not only made me a better student, but it showed me what would end up being my career path.

You also gave me the opportunity to spend a week in the most magical place on earth not just once, but twice. As a class we traveled to Walt Disney World to participate in the classes from the Disney YES program. I spent a week becoming a better person and together as a group we saw another side of you. We didn't just see our fearless and hardworking advisor, but we saw the passion you truly had and we saw that you care for your students like you do your own daughter. As the week progressed the group bonded, and I finally understood why the yearbook staff was family. Why everyone called you “mom”, we were all your kids and you wanted to see us succeed. We spent the week dancing down main street, trying new foods, meeting princess, and learning. Your family welcomed all of as their own and I now have an adopted sister who I will always look out for.

You don’t always get enough credit or recognition for what you do, but thank you for being the one person throughout my high school career who pushed me to better. You believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself.

You showed me that it’s possible to find something that you are not only passionate about, but something you can make a career out of.

“A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart”

Thank you for being the person who changed my life for the better.
Sincerely,

A very grateful student.