National Thank a Teacher Day is an annual celebration of teachers and support staff across early years settings, schools and colleges. The first Tuesday in May starts a week of recognition and thanks to our teachers.
This day invites us to consider the many teachers in our lives who were so instrumental in helping to shape the kind of people we are today. It’s an opportunity to take a trip down memory lane highlighting the various grades we attended, and ask ourselves: Who was my favourite teacher in my primary grades? In my high school years? In College or University?
And what constitutes a “favourite” teacher? A listening ear when it seems nobody else has time? Perhaps it is seen in a teacher who patiently goes over a concept again and again in a way that is respectful and not demeaning to the learner. What of the great patience when an unruly student “acts out” in class? Understanding and compassion - a “little bit of honey”, laced with a sense of justice and meted out in just the right proportions, brings “acting out” to a whole new level.
Let’s hear from some grateful wee ones: (Preschool and Kindergarten)
Preschool & Kindergarten
Thank you for teaching me my ABCs and making learning so fun!
I love story time and singing with you. You’re the best teacher ever!
Thank you for helping me tie my shoes and sharing your stickers!
You make school so much fun! I love coming to class every day.
Thanks for always smiling and making me feel special
from Elementary School pupils:
Thank you for making math easy and fun! You are the best!
I love how you always make time to help us. You are so kind!
You make learning fun with all your cool projects. Thank you!
Thank you for believing in me and helping me do my best!
I love being in your class! You are the best teacher ever!
From Middle School students
Thank you for helping me understand things when I struggle.
Your class is my favorite because you make learning exciting!
I really appreciate how patient and kind you are to everyone.
Thank you for always encouraging me to do my best!
You make a big difference in our lives, and I’m so grateful for you!
From High School students:
Thank you for inspiring me to love learning and work hard!
I really appreciate your support and the way you believe in me.
Your lessons go beyond the classroom and prepare us for life.
You make even the hardest subjects easier to understand—thank you!
Thanks for always challenging us to be our best and never give up!
From College students
Thank you for your guidance and for pushing me to think critically.
Your passion for teaching makes a huge impact on students like me.
I appreciate the extra time you spend helping me succeed.
You’ve helped me grow not just as a student, but as a person.
Thank you for your mentorship—it means the world to me!
When we can express sincere gratitude, we open our hearts to not taking anything in life for granted. Depending on your own state in life right now, what would you want to say to your favourite teacher?
-Sister Kathleen Lichti, csj
Images courtesy of Unsplash: Jess Bailey/ Element5 Digital/ Aaron Burden/