It’s Teacher Appreciation Week.

#ladefreakingda

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become much more cynical about days like this one. And since 2020, WAY more so.

In 2020, we were heroes.

“Give teachers raises,” they said. “They deserve our respect,” they clambered.

And now, well, we know what THEY think of us now.

Our Iowa governor tweeted this out:

“Every child in Iowa should have access to the best education – no matter their zip-code or their parents income! Without dedicated teachers, that’s impossible. Thankful for Jessica & the thousands of teachers across the state who have dedicated themselves to supporting our kids!”

#gag

So, we are taking money from public schools, and giving it to private schools as vouchers, but yet we’ll celebrate “dedicated teachers”?

#thehypocrisy

However, amongst the cynicism, little rays poke through that bring out the clouds.

Today, I got an email from one of my basketball players. She expressed how much she’d enjoyed me first as a teacher, then as a coach (I’d coached her both as a 7th grader and 8th grader). Thankfully, I was alone when I read her email because I was in tears by the end. True, I’m a big-time sap and have been more of a crier as of late, but we as educators just don’t read much like this anymore. 10% off your order of $100 is nice, but it doesn’t help you feel like you’ve made a difference. This email did.

#awwwww

Hush.

So as you think about your child’s teacher, write them a note, expressing your appreciation for what they’ve done for your child and your family. I won’t say that I don’t love a good coffee or wine gift card, but many of my favorite gifts have been handwritten notes. I had another former player ask me right before Christmas what I wanted, and I told her a handwritten note. The day before break, both she and her best friend (also on the team) showed up with cards and inside, two-page letters on how they were grateful for me as a coach and teacher. That’s another one that got me right in the heart.

I’m a grumpy old man. I’ve embraced my lot in life right now, but that doesn’t mean my small heart could grow “three sizes” in a day. Show your teacher some appreciation. They’ve been the country’s doormat for the past two years. Give them a little love and how that no, not everyone looks down their noses at those who’ve picked this profession.

Otherwise, enjoy an uneducated, easily swayed population, never a good thing for a country.