I had this great idea of blog (The West Wing is always a great thing to write about), but one of my students wrote a blog titled “I wish my teacher knew…..” and she aired some “difficulties” about school. Now, my daughter tells us, “you just don’t understand how hard going to school is,” and she’s probably right. I don’t understand. I am an outsider looking in. But I do know that I wish my students knew a few things about me and what I think about them!

So, here are a few things that I wish my students knew:

  • I worry about you. All. The. Time. Morning, noon, and night.
  • Your words carry power to inflict happiness or pain on the peers and me.
  • I laugh on the inside at all the crazy, silly, and yes, inappropriate things you say.
  • No, you don’t need a phone, the Internet, and Instagram to be awesome. You all ready are.
  • I wish we could do a few of the fun things we could do as sixth graders.
  • Sending those pictures will cause you problems for years.
  • You’ll be missed as you move into 9th grade.
  • Your humor, your innocence, your ability to laugh at funny things is what make you great people. Don’t lose that.
  • That manners, politeness, and respect will carry you far in life.
  • That I preach a positive attitude for a reason, that it’s one of the few things you have complete control over.
  • I love what I do and I do what I love. Teaching is one of my passion! It’s one thing you need to search for, that thing that will help you get up in the morning.
  • I get frustrated with your negative self-talk because I see the gifts you have.
  • You are brilliant and we need to hear your voice.
  • I want you to be successful in life, however you define success.
  • You don’t need to be successful in school to be successful in life, but you do need the right attitude and work ethic.
  • You are a genius and the world needs your contribution. 🙂

But most of all: I wish my students knew that I believe in each one of you, in your power, in your strength, your courage, and your ability to do great things.

Are there things you wish your students know? Add them in the comments! 🙂