Having the passover off I have time to catch up on some rest and to reflect. People are very critical of the New York educational system and for many reasons that are warranted . However there is something you dont see in the teacher. The teacher is he second line of defense for the child. I am writing this for all the real caring, going frustrated, often shaken educators.
This week I learned about a student suffering with HIV. Another dealing with such low self esteem she feels sex with multiple partners is the way of maturity. Then there is the group of young men who feel unadulterated violence against children who look like them living in the same neighborhood. With all that said I ask that you ask yourself how much do you really offer to support us educators. Many of us will say "no thank you" but give us that chance. How many times have you come to the school to assist us with other children when yours is on point.? I ask all this because its hard at the end of the week to not bring it all home with you or to fight off allowing depression to make you feel helpless.
I just can't seem to shake the feeling of the young man with the virus. I reassured him that I understand and that he is welcomed to sit with me anytime especially on the bad days. To see the brightness in his face you never know he was sick. Damn he is twelve! I am not exactly sure why I wrote this, I just know teachers dont get the credit we deserve. Everyone seems to discount what we have to deal with. We are performers, entertainers, doctors, counselors, and theapist. Yet people complain that we have too many days off.

Just take a minute to think of your best teacher and imagine if they weren't there for you?

Have a great week. I need to rest and consider how I am going to close out this difficult year that I wouldnt trade because you cant fully enjoy the great days without overcomming the bad ones. Pat a teacher this week you may not know it they'll love it and they probably need it.

K. L. the Writer