Teaching is not my forte, and I learned that at an early age. I enjoyed when my friends and I would play school years ago, except when I was the teacher. Everyone would end up ticked off and frustrated at me and I couldn’t understand why. Well, I was impatient, bossy, and had a severe case of the know-it-alls.

At age 7, though, one doesn’t realize that it takes a lot of skill and passion to be able to teach. So, I’ve lived with a teacher my whole life, and I look up to her so much. My mother works so hard and is so good at what she does. Through her, and many friends I have that are studying to be teachers, I have seen how sometimes teachers don’t get the credit they deserve.

Here’s a letter to all teachers everywhere:

I just want to say thank you. I sit at my desk in my room right now working toward a college degree, because of you. You kept me motivated, encouraged, and positive. It probably gets very frustrating, teaching kids that don’t appreciate all the things you do behind the scenes, all the hours you put in, and all the years you’ve given to your career. Don’t lose heart though. Please realize that there are students, parents, and communities that recognize your hard work.

So many kids have succeeded and beat the odds because you were one of the only people that took interest in them. You are so admired even though it can feel at times as though you’re not. People always say that teaching is more than just an 8-3 job, and I agree one hundred percent.

Running up to school late at night to get everything organized and situated for the next day is probably common for you. Just know, that the extra time put in, will pay off.

Future teachers, even in college, I see some of my best friends majoring in education. Other majors look down on you like you aren’t as smart or won’t be as successful, and I greatly disagree. Teaching is not easy, and I have not met one education student that was not passionate about the career they’re pursuing.

That speaks volumes.

Therefore, forget about anyone who has ever disrespected your future, and just keeps striving toward your goals. No career can be pointless if you love it and you’re making as big an impact as these many teachers are worldwide.

Moral of the story, you are appreciated and recognized. You do and have done so much for all of us that we don’t even realize. I will have you to thank when I walk across the stage to receive that diploma.

Don’t be discouraged, it can be hard in the world today to be a teacher, but it takes so much talent to beats the odds and do what you’re doing. There could never be words to express all of our gratitude. Thank you for all you do. You make such a difference.