Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week: Reflections from the Classroom

Teachers are at the center of our work with partners across the country. We are honored to celebrate and share reflections from teachers on what the teaching profession means to them, where they find inspiration, and the support and relationships that keep them going. Read a few of their answers below as we come together to celebrate and honor teachers this week.

Can you share a meaningful moment when you saw your teaching make an impact on student learning or academic growth?

"I remember a moment when one of these students had a breakthrough in class, and she achieved a learning goal that had been established for her. She said, "I didn't think I could get there, so why did you believe that I could?" That has always stuck with me as a reminder to reinforce my belief in each student's individual learning potential. I ran into her two weeks ago at the bank, and she is now taking advanced ELA classes in her junior year of high school. She made a point to say that her path changed after 7th grade, so that made the moment meaningful for me."

- Amber Guthrie, 7th Grade ELA Teacher, Portland East Middle School, Tennessee

"One meaningful moment in my Dual Language classroom was when a group of emerging bilingual students who initially struggled with reading comprehension began independently discussing texts in both Spanish and English. Through intentional language scaffolding, small-group instruction, and structured academic conversations, I watched students gain confidence in expressing their ideas academically. By the end of the year, several students who entered below grade level demonstrated significant growth on reading assessments and were actively participating in bilingual discussions. This moment was meaningful because it reflected not only academic progress but also increased confidence and pride in their bilingualism and cultural identity."

- Jessica Sandoval, Dual Language Teacher, Harlandale ISD, Gilbert Elementary, Texas

“I remember when my EAST and A/V production classes were able to start live-streaming events for the school. My students put in so much work learning the ins and outs of the technology to be able to pull off a complete production. Over the last 4 years, the quality of the productions has grown exponentially, and I am so proud of the work they have accomplished."

- James Woods, Teacher, Maumelle Charter High, Arkansas Academics Plus, Arkansas

What, or who, inspired you to become a teacher?

"My grandmother played a significant role in inspiring and shaping my decision to pursue education. As a little girl, I attended school with her every day. She worked at a low-income school, and despite the challenges she faced, she consistently showed her students love, compassion, and dedication. Experiencing her commitment to making a difference in their lives at an early age deeply influenced me and continues to guide my passion for teaching."

- Alise Larry, Kindergarten Teacher, G.W. Carver Primary, Ascension Public Schools, Louisiana

"I was inspired to become a teacher by the many amazing teachers I had growing up. In fourth grade, Mrs. Hernandez made me feel welcome when I moved to the United States from Mexico. In sixth grade, Mrs. Campbell helped me feel confident when speaking English. In eighth grade, Ms. Rincon started my love for reading and writing. Mrs. Rice, who loved me like a daughter, and Mrs.Korzekwa and Dr.Salazar, who pushed me to finish my degree. These teachers shaped me into the educator I knew I wanted to become, and I strive to teach and love my students the way they taught and loved me."

- Hilda Cantu Garcia, Bilingual 1st Grade Teacher, Sky Harbour Elementary, Southwest ISD, Texas

What is the most rewarding experience you've had as a teacher, and why did it mean so much to you?

“In all my years of teaching, the most rewarding experience that I get to experience is when families reach out to me even after they move away from our district or schools. Creating meaningful, caring, and impactful relationships with children and their families that last longer than just the school year is one of the reasons I keep coming back. The families that truly care and develop a partnership with me to help their child grow and develop mean so much, and the expedited growth that I see in students is truly remarkable.”

- Christy McMillan, K-12 Special Education Teacher, Nenana City Schools, Alaska

“One of the most meaningful moments I’ve experienced as a teacher came from something so simple. There was a note left behind on a desk after class that read, “I love this class,” followed by a reply in different handwriting, “me too.” It was a small, quiet moment, but it spoke volumes. It reminded me why I do what I do. My goal is for every student to feel engaged, valued, and excited to learn. Agriculture education is meant to be hands-on, meaningful, and yes, fun! I hope that every student who walks into my classroom leaves with not only knowledge, but also a genuine appreciation and love for Agriculture.”

- Sarah Beth Stallings, Agriculture and Career Explorations Teacher, Harris Middle School, Bedford County Schools, Tennessee

What motivates and keeps you in the profession?

“Teaching allows me to not only educate children but also mentor and help them in the community. My current focus is on completing my second master’s degree in educational leadership for the purpose of mentoring and eventually leading as a principal so I can create meaningful connections with students and have the privilege of helping them to achieve their goals. The end result will hopefully be motivation for others to reach and pursue their dreams, regardless of whether those dreams are fulfilled in the way they had initially imagined them or not. I am very thankful to be in a position to motivate, lead, and help develop future leaders from my community.”

- Shawancy Joseph, Teacher, Donaldsonville High School, Ascension Parish School Board, Louisiana

"As a former clinical mental health counselor, I decided to transition to teaching for a few reasons. One of those was my hope to not only inspire students, but to help them see their full potential. What motivates me the most is the pride in setting goals every year with students, seeing them become invested in those goals, and then reaching them. When students see their full potential, it can be life-changing for them. I want to be the motivation for them to dig deep and dream big."

Mary Randall, 7th Grade English Teacher, Hagerstown Jr./Sr. High School, Nettle Creek Schools, Indiana

"What keeps me in the profession is the moment when it finally clicks for students and seeing them understand the concepts. I also like the relationships with the students, and when they tell me they like or understand math for the first time. I picked 8th grade because I really connect with the kids, and it's fun to come to work and see their different personalities. Each day is different - it is fun!"

- Braquel Dix, 8th Grade Math Teacher, Coolidge Junior High School, Coolidge Unified School District #21, Arizona

What are you most proud of about your school?

“I am proud of our school’s strong commitment to our students. This dedication is reflected in our shared focus on fostering student growth and meeting each individual learner where they are, ensuring their needs are addressed. Our school shows what a strong community looks like for our teachers and students. It makes me so proud to be a Richmond Drive Tiger!”

- Mackenzie Brown, Teacher, Richmond Drive Elementary School, Rock Hill Schools, South Carolina

What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a teacher?

"Teaching can be challenging, but if you are passionate about helping others grow and succeed, it’s incredibly rewarding. You don’t have to come from a traditional educational background. Your experiences and strengths can make a real difference in the classroom.”

- Emily Ferguson, CTE Teacher, Iberia Parish Career Center, Louisiana

My advice would be to embrace growth and not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Teaching will challenge you, but it will also shape you in meaningful ways. Understand that you may not reach every student every day, and that’s okay, but if you can make a difference in even one student’s life, your work is impactful. Be patient, be authentic, and don’t forget to find moments of joy along the way (And if you choose middle school, be prepared, they will definitely keep you humble and entertained!).”

- Brittny Johnson Morris, Teacher, Albert Cammon Middle School, St. Charles Parish Public Schools