I was attending a high school graduation a few years ago, and a former student during her salutatorian speech talked about how I had inspired her when she was in my math class. It was one of those memorable moments that makes teaching worthwhile.
And it shows me such inspiration comes full circle.
I love the feeling that, as a Latina and the first in my family to go to college, I represent a person who was able to work hard and get into this career – one I wanted since I was 12 years old. I’m able to be a leader in my school. I can inspire students from similar backgrounds as a teacher and as a leader of my local who has the chance to speak up for what she believes in.
That is important to me, because along the way I had others from whom I got inspiration.
My mother always wanted to be a teacher and never got a chance – but always encouraged and supported me. I also had some wonderful teachers who brought the best out in me and helped me clearly see I wanted to teach.
I now have been teaching math for six years, and I know that if I am good at my job, it is because of her and other mentors and colleagues who guided and supported me.
I also have been active in my union since college. At the time, I was named secretary for my campus chapter and then for the North Carolina Association of Educators. I have supported issues related to how teachers were treated during the pandemic and helped negotiate improved reimbursement for us.
In my local, the Rockingham County Association of Educators, I have been building rep since soon after I was hired – and my goal is to keep members informed. I am always concerned that educators aren’t aware of their rights and don’t have good information about ways they can advocate for themselves – and education generally.
Within my local union, I also want to do smaller things for educators – a note reminding them how important their work is or a small gift and that tells them we are there to support them. Maybe just a bit of inspiration. A little encouragement and praise goes a long way.
