When I first walked into your classroom I never knew that leaving it would be so difficult.

Thank you for noticing the girl in the back of the classroom with her head down. The one who was too scared to raise her hand because she feared saying the wrong answer. You saw the potential in her that she did not yet see in herself. It was you that gave her courage and motivation to try and try after countless failures. Your hours of dedication day after day proved that she was not just another student.

Today, I write this with fearlessness, thanks to you. The words I spell correctly, the sentences that are structured properly and the paragraphs that flow as gracefully as a river, all thanks to you. I always knew what I wanted to say, I just never knew how. I had a voice no one had ever heard until you came along.

You had the patience of a saint from the moment you came to my aid. While other teachers would have labeled me incompetent or incapable, you respected my disabilities and were willing to help me overcome them. It was a trial and error system that lasted years, but the triumph at the end was worth every failure. When I felt like giving up you reminded me why I started.

Thank you for being honest even if you knew it would hurt my feelings. I needed someone to be tough on me and push me to new limits. I never knew how well I could do until you told me I could do better. You always saw what I was capable of and made sure I went beyond that.

You showed me that teachers do care about individuals on both an academic level and a personal level. On days where I entered your class room with tears you approached me as a comforting friend no matter the situation. Other days I was your friend when you needed one and until this day I still think of you as one of my best friends.

I made the cheerleading team because you told me if I wanted it I could accomplish it. I accepted multiple scholarships because you showed me hard work pays off. As my name was called for my awards, I finally felt like I made something of myself. I then had the honor of opening acceptance letters to every college I applied to. Thanks to you, I was finally proud of myself. I could not have done it without you!

The last day of school was bitter sweet. I had to realize that I would walk out of your class room for the last time. Leaving the room where I cried tears of joy and tears of pain for several years. Leaving the teacher that taught me the meaning of setting a goal and reaching it. Saying our good byes were not easy but I know no matter where life takes me I will always have your love and support.

Your efforts resulted in a student that was ready to take on the world. I had a new voice and was ready to let the world here it. It was you who changed me and for the better. You made me see the potential I had always had and for that I am forever thankful.