ACKNOWLEDGING GREAT TEACHERS-Part 2

COPYRIGHT NELLIE JACOBS, 2005
Nellie Jacobs
Author. Speaker. Consultant.
www.gradingtheteacher.com
www.nelliejacobs.com

"The teacher can help the student mature, not just by passing on knowledge and skills, but also by encouraging personal growth.” Nellie Jacobs, Grading the Teacher

We may be quick to complain about something happening in the classroom. However, how often do we let our child’s teacher know how appreciative we are? As an example to our kids it is important to acknowledge the kind acts and positive experiences we have with the people who are part of our lives. Feedback to a teacher can be made in the form of a simple phone-call, e-mail, a written note or letter with – as an added bonus - copies sent to administration. Some of my adult children still keep in touch with their favourite teachers. My son Ricky currently working in advertising, periodically visits the classes of his former high school media teacher Mrs. Gordon to talk to her students about communication in the workplace.

Ian Hardy, who developed “Creativity Camp” for adults writes about his best teacher:

“I never paid attention in high school, and also, rarely made an effort. This ultimately reflected my grades. By grade 12 it was certain that I was going to stay back another year while most of my friends went to college or university.

“My English teacher, Mr. Beer, took me aside one year and had a heart to heart chat with me about "my future direction". He saw bright things and saw potential in me that I did not. [He] gave me guidance and a purpose to strive for. Ever since that day I have put forth my best effort in everything I do.

“I have gone on to graduate college, worked for a few of the best companies in the world, also traveled the world and have a successful profitable business.

“The pinnacle of this experience is locating Mr. Been and thanking him for his major influence on me. He has since retired from teaching also remembered our conversation.”

Have you told your favourite teachers how important they are to you? Want to go overboard in showing your appreciation? Nominate your teacher or your child’s teacher for a Best Teacher Award. Or create an award system in your school or District.

Check out these websites for tons of great ideas:
1. www.teacherstaffappreciation.com
2. www.education-world.com/a_admin/admin/admin308.shtml

-Nellie

We'd like to hear from you: share your school stories - click on the "Post a Comment" button below or contact me directly at nellie@nelliejacobs.com.