by Sarah Johnson

“It’s interesting that so much public debate centers around celebrities, athletes and even politicians serving as role models. The truth is, outside of their own home, one of the biggest role models in a young person’s life is standing at the front of the classroom.”

Here are some undeniable statistics:

• 3.6 million students will graduate from high school this year, and they’ve all been influenced by a teacher like you.
• 83% of students say a teacher has boosted their self-esteem and confidence.
• 54%, say a teacher has helped them during a difficult time.
• 80% of students say a teacher has encouraged them to follow their dreams.
• 75% say teachers are mentors and role models.
• 88% of people say a teacher had a significant, positive impact on their life.
• 98% of people believe that a good teacher can change the course of a student’s life.
• The average teacher affects over 3,000 students during their career.

(Results according to a 2010 ING Foundation Survey)

In case you wondered; what you are doing every day matters! It even has a rippling effect, most of which you will likely never see! The students in your classroom are the rising generation. They will eventually be the leaders of this world and according to this survey, you have the opportunity to be one of the most influential people in their lives! Of course, teaching the core curriculum is at the top of the list for goals to achieve in your classroom, but just think for a minute, about what you do beyond that! As this 3rd quarter marches on, give it all you’ve got! Don’t let the test prep, office politics, hard to reach parents and spring-fevered students get you down, keep the energy and momentum going! Hold your head up high, put a smile on your face and have a glimpse into the future of these amazing humans you see in front of you. Look at them with the vision of who you know they can become, they are the future! What you do today actually does make a difference and it matters a lot more than you think!