I Didn't Always Wanted to Be A Teacher

If you would have asked me three years ago if I wanted to become a teacher, I would have wavered on that possibility. It is not that I had anything against the teaching profession, however, I did not feel as if I had anything to offer to children as teachers in my past had done for me. Nevertheless, over the last few years I had the amazing opportunity to be a part of Pee Dee for Math Science & Technology Academy, a charter school growing in the Bishopville community. The physical building was not even built yet, but I was still able to be part of the behind scenes of some of the process. From recruiting students, organizing classrooms, to fundraising, and seeing how staff were so passionate about wanting to make a difference for the children in that community also sparked a fire in me desiring the same goal. It also had me asking myself what I could do to inspire kids to break out of the mold.

Being a part of the Pee Dee Academy family opened my eyes towards the needs of children and showed me that I had plenty to offer. I could display my love, my support, a listening ear, and my heart. As I worked alongside with the staff who poured out into these kids, most who have derived from broken homes, I just knew that this was it. I became attached to those kids who just wanted someone to listen and care. I will never forget the time as I tried to help a student who felt so stupid and complained that he couldn't do a certain math problem. However, the excitement that flashed before his eyes when he finally understood it did something in me. I also cannot forget the bright eyed child who wrapped his arms around me and told me he loved me just because I took the time to listen to him.

As a teacher I want to see that same spark of excitement and joy erupt from a child who feel as if they have no hope at home. I want to teach more than just English. I want them to know that they are not a statistic and that they do nor have to fall into the cracks of poverty, drugs, teenage pregnancy, and violence. Instead they become active and positive leaders in the community. I want to help raise the next lawyer, doctor, teacher, or whatever profession they desire.

I want to be a teacher so that I can invest into the lives of children who need a lifeline in their lives. And I am willing to become that. I want them to know that someone in their lives care and truly wants them to succeed as teachers had done for me. I want to build a bridge, not a wall, for students to cross into their destinies. Because nothing is impossible for them.