This week is “Teacher Appreciation Week.” Being a teacher at Dry Hollow and growing up in The Dalles, this week has special meaning to me.
Almost every day my students show me their appreciation with hugs, pictures, notes, or an occasional apple or other goodie. All of these make my occupation wonderful.
When I was in school I had many great teachers. My first grade teacher, Wilma Smith, gave me confidence and a love for learning and going to school. My fourth grade teacher Mrs. Brower, taught me, among other things, about responsibility, square dancing, and knitting, and a love for our local history. In junior high, my P.E. teacher, Mr. Miller, got me interested in running and in track and cross country. He helped me build character and confidence in myself and was like a second father to me. In high school I had “Mr. Lester T. Jensen” for 12th grade English.
He was a tough teacher, but he taught me important writing skills and the importance of always doing your best on whatever you do. In high school, I also had the opportunity to cadet teach with one of the best teachers I’ve ever known, Mr. Mel Omeg. He truly is the reason I became a teacher. These are just a few of the many outstanding teachers that have had an influence on my life here in The Dalles.
In the next few days, if you get a chance, I hope you’ll take the time to let the teachers that have influenced your life, know how much they have meant to you. Happy “Teacher Appreciation Week” to all teachers everywhere!
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