A colleague recently told me that he wanted the administration to recognize him, to notice he is a good teacher and finally show him some appreciation. I told him to give it up, that would never happen. Admins only seem to notice teachers when they do something wrong. A student of his heard part of the conversation and shouted, "Mr. Hope, you are the best. We love you." A group of kids from the class joined in. Mr. Hope has been recognized. One day he might realize this kind is the only kind that matters.
This week I was fortunate to be at the senior award ceremony and I watched my kids, one after one, receive award after award. It was wonderful. Before leaving, a former student, a boy accepted at Cornell, Columbia, Yale, U Penn and Princeton (he's going to Princeton) told me I was an inspiring teacher, one of the few that got him to where he is today.
This week, I got my award and my recognition. I got it from someone who matters.
