Tia was selected to speak at her graduation
ceremony and her speech honored her
grandparents. Her grandmother had recently
passed away and her father was hospitalized
during the ceremony. But because of
technology, he was able to see, from his
hospital bed, his daughter speaking proudly of
his father and mother. She spoke of sacrifice,
loyalty, patriotism, and family. Her speech
brought tears to the eyes of the community
and her guest of honor, her grandfather, had a
front-row seat at the event.
I believe that teachers are miracle workers.
We can heal old wounds, mend fences,
and teach students to develop kinship. We
foster storytelling and community building,
and have an innate power to help students
develop insight.
I occasionally look at that card Tia wrote to me
on that Challenge Day many years ago. I am
reminded of those moments when students feel
lost and then I realize the work that we do so
students can see how cherished and connected
they truly are.
Teacher of the Year biographies: bit.ly/2015ToY
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