By Laurel A. Falvo

I remember the first day of fourth grade as though it was yesterday! At that time, the administration posted class lists on the door of each classroom, so as I entered school, I anxiously approached each of the fourth grade doors looking for my name on one of the lists. I was hoping that I would get any teacher other than Miss Rey. It seemed as though practically all of my older sister’s friends had warned me about what a scary teacher she was. Imagine my extreme fear and disappointment as I finally discovered my name on none other than Miss Rey’s door!

I quietly received the older students’ condolences as I took the long bus ride home, then burst into tears as I walked through the door of my home. By the next morning, I approached that fourth grade door with both trepidation and determination.

I don’t recall the exact point when my negative thoughts turned to positive ones. But through the course of that year (to be honest, I don’t think it took long), I grew to love Miss Rey! She encouraged me when I struggled with social dilemmas, waited patiently while I worked through academic challenges, comforted me when I had my tonsils removed, and inspired me with her stories and positive attitude. I was in awe as I listened to her describe how she had published a book, and determined right then and there that someday I would publish a book, too! I also decided that I wanted to be a teacher—just like Miss Rey!

I won’t tell you how many years it’s been since fourth grade, but I will tell you this: My life has been profoundly influenced by my beloved fourth grade teacher! From teaching first grade, to publishing a book, to recognizing that first impressions of people (mine and others’) can sometimes be quite wrong, to learning to value the extreme importance of a good teacher, the pathway of my life has been shaped to a great extent by one very special person.

How about you? Did you have a favorite teacher? Does your child have a favorite teacher? Have you taken time to let that person know about the impact he or she has had on your life or that of your child? (A note from you or your child may be the best gift that teacher will ever receive!)

For all you teachers out there—don’t forget that the lives of the children in your classroom will be shaped and molded by YOU. Your attitudes, knowledge, experiences, reactions, etc. are somehow going to play a role in the development of future writers, teachers, political leaders, doctors, lawyers, garbage collectors, landlords, secretaries, scientists, parents, law enforcement professionals, cashiers, and more!

What a responsibility—and what an inspiration!

 
© 2007 Laurel A. Hoekman/Laurel A. Falvo