As educators, we have the incredible capability to make an impact in the lives of our students. We sometimes don’t realize how big on an impact we can make. I saw this quote today and it reminded me of how I can make a difference in my classroom. Each student has a story, a background, and a reason for who they are. We all have the ability to motive, encourage, empower, and inspire students on a daily basis. What an amazing and powerful aspect of our careers that we are able to control!

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, it is important to reflect on what we can do differently or what we can do to be better than last year. We need to ask ourselves some important questions in order for us to be successful educators: What kind of person do my students need? Do they need a motivator? Do they need a listening ear? Do they need someone to encourage them and to recognize their hard work? Do they need someone who will push them in learning new content and allow them to recognize their own potential? As an educator, we play many roles. It is our responsibility to be there for our students, to guide and encourage them, to make them feel they are able to achieve anything they set their minds to.

This school year, I encourage you to recognize the powerful gift of being an educator. Be that person that you wish you had when you were younger. The students in your classroom will recognize how much you care for them and that is the best reward of all.