Dear Sue:
As silly as it may sound, over the past couple of years, this little plaque has traveled with me to many places. It seems to always find it's way into my bag. I sometimes only notice that I've brought it along with me after unpacking. I am writing this letter to thank you for giving me a reason to continue being untidy. I am sure my mother appreciates what you've done. In all seriousness, though, this plaque means something to me and I am beginning to understand this something as being your ability to inspire change in students like me.
This past spring, I took a class called "Teaching for Social Justice" at Colby College. It was intended to provide an introduction to the theory and practice of teaching, with a particular focus on social justice. Along with reading the works of some of the greats, in the world of modern progressive education, like Patrick Finn and Paul Gorski, there was also a civic engagement component, where we were required to serve as an assistant teacher at a local elementary or middle school and keep a weekly blog. Teaching for Social Justice has not only deepened my understanding of the profession, it has also instilled in me a deeper sense of appreciation for the teachers and mentors who have made a difference in my life.
As you may already know, I am currently in India, where I am interning with Dream a Dream, a Bangalore-based NGO. This organization works to empower underserved young people by providing them with opportunities to build cognitive, personal and interpersonal skills, through academic and career support as well as arts and sports programming. These are services that would otherwise be inaccessible to them.
This opportunity has pushed me to reflect on my own educational experiences. As a first generation student of color, from a low-income background, I see so much of myself in these kids. I cannot help but think about the people who have helped me to overcome so many obstacles and you are certainly one of them.
Thank you, Mama-Sue, for being a teacher, a mentor and a life-long friend. You are what every educator should aspire to be. You inspire your students. You do everything in your power to ensure that we are able to secure whatever opportunity comes our way. I will never forget the lengths you went to, from late nights looking over my term-papers and college applications to coming to my house, with a translator, so my parents could understand exactly why it was important for me to be away for three weeks to attend the Seeds of Peace International Summer Camp. You never judged them. When they could not come to my cross country and track meets, you understood it was because they both had to work to support the family. You drove me to practices and school events, even when it was inconvenient. When navigating two cultures started becoming difficult for me, you reminded me how important it is that I do not give up on either one. Many educators spend a life-time negotiating equity and equality. You, however, somehow know exactly how to support all your students, giving each one the individualized attention he/she may need.
As an aspiring educator myself, passionate about educational equity, I will be looking to you as a role model. You have been an inspiration. Whether as an activist, a mentor, an educator or a policy-maker, I hope to have a positive impact on the life of another individual as well.
I've often wondered why I always bring this little plaque with me, sometimes without even thinking, wherever I travel. I've actually been asked why it seems to always sit on the nightstand next to my bed before, only to respond with "I don't know." I think I can confidently say, the next time someone asks me that question, I'll be able to give a proper response. To some, this plaque is nothing more than a carved stone, with a couple of creative designs and a hackneyed quote engraved into it; however, to me, it is the physical representation of the power an effective educator possesses to inspire change in her/his students.
A lot has changed since we first met, more than six years ago. One thing has remained the same, however. I am still a procrastinating, all-nighter-pulling, overly-caffeinated college student. But you know what, Sue? I think I am going to be alright. My mother may scold me every now and then for being so disorganized. But I think I am going to be just fine.
Sincerely,
A student you've inspired
