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A friend recently asked me why I like to teach.
I tried to recall engaging tales about the joys of working with young children. Perhaps a funny anecdote where children with paint-covered hands come looking for a hug I know I have to give even though I’m wearing my best clothes. An ironic story about kids giving me their best advice: “I heard what you said, Mr. Runnett. I just need it explained in a different way.” Touching moments about how a simple gesture brightened someone’s day—it’s amazing what a bandage or ice pack can cure. These are just some of the joys of teaching I usually recount. However, because the question was asked by a friend, I didn’t want to give the usual pat answer. For at that moment, I was thinking about one particular student and my concerns about her future. She struggles with learning, her behaviour is distracting in the classroom and her personal situation is depressing, even heartbreaking. I’m torn between being upset by what this student does and the desire to continue believing that she can somehow turn everything around.
I wish I could say this story is unique, but it is not. The sad reality of our profession is that poverty and dysfunctional families have a profound effect on the people least equipped to deal with such difficulties—children.
That is the real reason why I teach, even with the long hours and hard work. I teach because I believe I have something to offer, and when a student challenges me or scares me, I know I can help.
I can help them learn. I can extend my hand in kindness. I know I can make a positive difference in the lives of all my students. I’ve seen children do amazing things. That’s why I teach.
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Brent Runnett is the principal of Ross Ford Elementary School, in Didsbury.
