What Teachers Really Do: Lessons in Kindness, Dignity, and Empathy

The Teachers Who Shaped Me

I crapped myself in kindergarten. Mrs. Miller helped me clean up. She didn’t shame me, she didn’t make me feel small—she showed me what dignity looked like.

In grade one, I threw up all over myself. Mrs. Geniac told me everything was going to be okay and found me clean clothes. She showed me what kindness looks like.

In grade two, Mrs. Robinette saw that I was being bullied on the playground. Instead of sending me back out there, she let me stay inside with her during recess. She showed me what friendship looked like.

In grade five, I forgot my lunch at home. Mrs. McGregor gave me hers—mushroom soup. It warmed my belly and my heart. She showed me what empathy looked like.

Teachers Don’t Indoctrinate—They Care

People love to throw around the idea that teachers are “indoctrinating” kids. But teachers have never just taught.

They are caregivers when parents aren’t there. They are mentors, protectors, and guides. They help raise kids so that their parents can afford to take care of them at home.

A Little Respect Goes a Long Way

I am grateful for those women who took care of me when I needed them most. And I know I’m not alone.

Teachers shape tomorrow—so the least we can do is show them some respect today.