I write this with a heavy heart. A heart that cannot even put into words the grief and sorrow that I am feeling for those that have lost their loved ones just because they attended school one day. It absolutely breaks me that one cannot go teach the next generation or get an education without having to fear for their lives. As a future educator, I know that I could easily give up on pursuing education so that I won't have to hug my loved ones extra tight before driving to school each day. But that is not what's going to happen. I am not going to give up on my students and the education that each of them deserve. I am not going to be scared and constantly worry. So for my future students, this one's for you.

What you will learn in my classroom will not just be about academics. You will learn social and emotional skills. You will learn what it's like to talk to others about how you are feeling and be fully aware of how much those around you care. I am not going to let you forget just how valuable each of you are. I know that social skills in the classroom will help each of you become better in tune with your mental health, so why not start on the elementary level. I know that right now, you are children. But one day, you will be old enough to purchase a gun or let your mental health take a toll on you. As you grow up, you will start to notice how hard life is, and how sometimes it can feel like fighting is not worth it. But you are loved and you are not alone. That is what I want to teach you, above anything else.

I know that I am not Superwoman. There is absolutely no way for me to prevent school shootings from happening. But I will fight for each and every one of you. I will give every piece of me and do what I can to keep you safe, smiling, and healthy. I am aware that I am one person and that I do not have all the answers. But earning your trust and getting to know every single one of you will be my very greatest goal.

You all are in my prayers already. Even thought I am still two years away from receiving my license to teach, I am already praying for protection and love for each student that enters my future classrooms. I do not want to imagine trying to hide a large number of you in a closet. But if something ever happens, I will be as prepared as one can be. Your young lives come before mine, no matter what.

I am thrilled to teach you about life and the world around you one day. You have no idea how passionate I am about my future career. News reports are not going to change that. I am praying for a change and looking towards hope for the future. But no matter what, I promise that I will not give up on you guys.