I’ll never for get my third grad teacher. What a year that was for me! My elementary school teachers were all gems, quite honestly – I was so fortunate. But Mrs. Holthausen in third grade at Brookside was simply special. My sister had just started middle school, my dad had just moved out, and my mom had just gone back to work… talk about feeling abandoned (I know you didn’t mean to, Mom – I love you!)… Mrs. H was my rock. Three years later, Ms. Murray was the one. Adolescence was not easy, and in 6th grade, girls were just mean to each other! Ms. Murray provided such tough love – I deserved (and needed) the “talking to” and the hugs.
Teachers can make such a difference in a student’s life, no matter what age.
I’ve been so grateful to be told that I’m “the one” for some of my students, from babies and toddlers to college kids. They’re still kids, and they still need support. Just last week I played Brave by Sara Bareillis for students in one of the Music Therapy classes I teach. They’re graduating this year, and I’ve taught them since they were sophomores but have known a few of them longer. The song has multiple meanings and they were grateful for my show of support; they expressed gratitude for sharing knowledge, resources, and support over the years. “None of us would be where we are today if it hadn’t been for you,” one of them wrote to me in an email after class last week. Wow.
I know there are days that have been set aside to honor and celebrate teachers, but appreciation anytime feels good. And having had those special teachers in my life, I’m so glad to know I can be one for others. I’m also grateful to the Baby Fingers teachers who’ve trained with me and teach our families – I know what a difference they make!
