In this current economic climate, education has come under a great deal of criticism. This past weekend, I was privileged to exhibit my Books, Panda Bears, and Teacher’s Packages at the (CAEYC), California Association for the Education of Young Children, conference in Sacramento.
Many teachers stopped by my booth and I was struck with a sense of “ah” and wonder as the many hundreds of teachers came by. Many of these teachers had spent their own money to attend this conference. They sat in numerous classes learning about the latest teaching strategies to work with young children, and went into the exhibit hall to review the many products that were available to be utilized in the classrooms.
As the teachers stopped by my booth, I was so inspired by the breadth of their knowledge and their eagerness to learn new ways to better teach their children. They seemed determined to provide the best teaching environment for the young children in their care.
I watched them go by with their arms loaded with materials and supplies eagerly anticipating their use in the classrooms.
I felt a renewed hope for the future of our education system because in spite of the media and the current economic constraints, these teachers were there to learn and to purchase products that would enhance the learning of their children.
The education system always comes down to the integrity and the commitment of each teacher. What I saw this weekend was the best and the brightest teachers reaching out for the best they could be for their students.
Individual teachers are and always have been the back bone of education and as long as they eagerly provide better education for our children, we are in good hands.
Money may matter at some material level, but the heart of good teachers will do their jobs regardless of the circumstances and devote their teaching time to the children in their care.
We don’t often acknowledge our teachers for their hard and dedicated work, but let us not forget the incredible gift they bring to the lives of our children and the extraordinary contributions they make to their future.
The world would not be the same without our invaluable teachers. Thank you, teachers every where, for all that you do. I am truly grateful.