Not long after my last blog post, I received a job as a Chinese teacher. I had applied many places looking for work, but had been lacking in experience that most educational institutions are seeking. Even though I have really grown to love teaching, and am skilled at Chinese language, I never thought that I would actually become a Chinese teacher in the United States. (Let it be known that Mandarin and teaching are not my only marketable skills!) I am now starting the Chinese program for a local school district, teaching over 90 students at three different schools. All I can say is, I’m not qualified to be a teacher. But, here’s a secret, none of your teachers are qualified.
Dear readers, before berating me please let me explain.
Most teachers have not worked in an IT department before, but are expected to function with the skill of a member of the IT Crowd (This applies especially to those educators who are trying to integrate technology into the classroom…)
Most teachers have not worked in sales, but are expected to deliver amazing customer service to students, parents, and the community with a smiles on their faces and in their voices.
Most teachers have not worked as designers or interior decorators, but are expected to pinterest, butcher-block-paper, and arrange their classrooms like masterpieces to create a learning-ready environment.
Most teachers have not worked as journalists or editors, but are expected to create newsletters and communication pieces for parents and community members.
Most teachers have not worked as a psychologist or psychiatrist, but are still expected to assist students in need, and assess when a student may be in need of extra support and resources.
Most teachers have not worked as tour guides, but still lead excursions and field trips, so that students may give classroom knowledge real-world application.
Most teachers have not performed as actors, comedians, or inspirational speakers, but are still expected to deliver engaging lessons that will transform knowledge into understandable chunks.
Most teachers’ qualifications are not up to par, but they still provide students with amazing educational opportunities.
Although I do not always feel qualified nor ready, I do feel proud to be part of a group of people who can have a positive impact on the lives of young people. Teachers hold such a large amount of responsibilities, that honestly, their ability to balance them all is quite remarkable. Your teachers are quite impressive. This is not a post about how teachers never “really” get time off, or how teachers are not paid enough. This is a post about how teachers go into the classroom everyday to teach your students. Even though they may not feel qualified, or have experience in every challenge they pursue, or every task handed to them, most teachers try their best. What I have observed of my coworkers’ actions these past months has left me stunned and inspired. No teacher is qualified, but despite this, they do it all, and do it all well.
I encourage everyone to reach out an thank a teacher, educator, or mentor who has helped you reach where you are today.
And, if you ever find that IT-salesperson-designer-journalist-psychologist-tourguide-actor-comedian-teacher, please forward me their contact information. I’d like to observe their classes.
outsidetheoxbox 