This is the time of year when virtually every school system in the nation is gearing up for the start of a brand new year. I have the both the privilege and the opportunity to be the Convocation speaker at many of these events.
At one of those beginning of the year kickoffs this week I had a conversation with a lifelong educator who relayed this story to me.
She had been having a conversation with a student one day on the subject of year round school. The student had asked her if she was in favor of it. This teacher, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, jokingly replied, “Oh, no! I don’t think I could put up with you all summer long!” They both shared a laugh but then the student said, “I’m for it.”
This teacher was surprised and asked him, “Are you serious?”
“Yep. I’d come every day if I could.” he said.
“Oh come on…even Christmas?” she asked.
“Sure would. Even Christmas.”
She pressed him, “But why?”
His answer is one that she has not forgotten in years, “Because here, I can eat. I am warm. And somebody cares about me.”
I submit that this little guy is probably speaking for thousands of young people who feel the same way. So to all you teachers and administrators out there, remember school might be the very best part of your students’ life. Take good care of them.