An Exceptional Teacher
An Exceptional Teacher
It's not like today is kind of teachers' remembrance day, but this is me ceasing a day, time, and moment to talk about teaching as an excellent profession.
Teaching a class of hormonal teenagers as an experienced person has indeed taught me two important virtues, which include patience and tolerance.
At my initial stage of teaching, as someone who's not fat but a slim person of modest stature, I always found myself wondering how I'd command respect from a large room full of rowdy, final-year students in high school.
I could recall vividly walking into a classroom feeling all tiny, insignificant specks amidst a sea of towering, hormonal teenagers. But I knew I had to connect with them irrespective of how I felt. So I could understand what makes them tick, I did what any self-respecting teacher would do- I read about their psychology.
At this point, I discovered that beneath their tough exterior looks, these teenagers were actually struggling to find their places in life; they were grappling with identity crises, peer pressure, teachers' attitudes, and societal influence at large. And I, their teacher at this time, to them I was just another authority figure they'll have to contend with.
But no, it was indeed a new era and opportunity for mind recreation. I thought of connecting with them, being more than just a teacher but that special kinda teacher with a friendly mindset who's willing to get down to their level no matter the cost, learn, and grow together in layman's terms.
I had to be a confidant, a mentor, and more. So, I made a conscious effort to be more reliable, accessible, and available with a willingness to understand their perspectives.
It wasn't gonna be anywhere easier because there were times when I felt like I was losing control, mostly when the classroom seemed to be spiraling out of control. But I held firm, drawing strength from every ounce of patience and tolerance possessed.
And slowly but surely, something remarkable happened. Those students started responding as supposed; they began to be outspoken about their thoughts and feelings why because they saw me not just as a teacher but as someone who cared about them and their success.
As time went by, I found myself gaining more confidence and increasing my patience and tolerance. I learned to know when to push and when to pull back. Importantly, I realized that with the right approach, even the most hormonal of teenagers could be reached, taught, and inspired.
Unlike other professions, teaching is quite broad and more sensitive in terms of inspiration and motivation. Your students are expected to exceed their natural potential. Help them to uncover their hidden self, and become more.
Just like I learned the richest place in the world isn't the banking sector, hospital, or agricultural environment but the graveyard. The reason is that they're a lot of untapped potential buried in there.
Just like raw gold, most of them weren't privileged to get reform and proper guidance even with the choices of careers.
Don't just be an employee; get into the teaching system and make a difference beyond the stipend you are entitled to; they're great potential sitting in front, looking at you daily, be more than a teacher to help them stand out. You were an educated individual in this profession for others, share that knowledge with them.
This to all the teachers worldwide, you're loved, your efforts are appreciated. But always remember the place of patience and tolerance when dealing with your students.
Lastly, it's not just gonna be about you being the authority figure, but someone they can confide in, a source of inspiration, guidance, and a support system. And history won't forget your names.
Much love from your friend
@johnpetra
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