by William Harrell

Created on: June 15, 2010   Last Updated: June 16, 2010

Love. This is the only reason any teacher should teach. Love of the kids that we come in contact with every day. When you love anything you want to see it grow and thrive. Teaching kids who are at risk or behavioral problems can be very challenging at times. My kids are classified as special education, but not due to lack of intelligence or handicap. They have just had a problem. Usually losing their temper or acting out in class. My kids are great kids that go on to college and get degrees. Most of them become successful and are contributing members of society. I am proud of my kids. 

Not all students are receptive to my style of teaching. At first anyway. I've had students that wouldn't speak to me the first year I had them in my group. The students I get on my case load usually stay with me for all four years of high school. So they are stuck with me. Over the years I have found that bringing food to school and cooking it in my microwave has unlocked the doors of communication with many of my students. Some of them don't have active parents in the home and therefore don't have the advantage of having breakfast fixed for them. Coming to school on an empty stomach doesn't help them concentrate on the work they need to be doing. To make matters worse many of my students are to proud to take the free school meals that most of them qualify for. So eating lunch in my room lets them nourish themselves and keep their privacy. 

Watching my students walk the line at graduation is special beyond words. Some of them have faced struggles that most of us can only ponder. It makes me smile inside knowing they have made it! They have done it! Seeing the smiles on their faces beaming with pride. Even though most of their parents aren't there to celebrate and share this big day of achievement with them. In some ways these parents don't deserve to there this special day. But, the kids are dying inside because they aren't. 

Finally, how can I describe the feeling of seeing a former student that has graduated when they come up to me and give me the biggest hug I've ever had. To see their smiling face and hear about their successes. That's why I teach.

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