Why are we teachers?

I feel lucky to be a part of such a great network of teachers. People have chosen this profession for various reasons, but no doubt they love making a difference. I devote 2012 to being the very best that I can be and learning as much as I can from the wonderful people that I connect with.  When we set out to be teachers, we all had different reasons. Perhaps, one or both of our parents were teachers. Perhaps, one of the teachers we had in high school, middle school, or elementary school made a significant impact on us. Perhaps it was a coach, a mentor, or an uncle or aunt.....Regardless of what pushed us on the path we are on, we now have an enormous responsibility to continue making the difference that led us to where we currently are. When we truly reflect and question the path we have chosen, the answers become clear to us both objectively and subjectively. Allow these answers to blossom within us.

When I look back on my own experience, I devote this year to people within the profession who have made an enormous impact on me- both spiritually and/or professionally. I devote this year to Dennis Mallette, the best teacher anyone could ever ask for in high school. He was there for me through think and thin, through hard times and good times. He made me want to be a teacher. Through times of conflict, turmoil, and feelings of complete and utter defeat, Mr Mallette was a fixture in my life; steady and strong and always willing to offer words of support and kindness that helped me get through. 

I devote this year to one of the best teachers I have ever worked with, Michael Knott. A long time veteran of the international circuit who has made a massive difference in so many people's lives, both students and teachers. Michael's current battle with cancer has not, in the least, dampened his enthusiasm for life or taken a second away from the kids he teaches. He inspires me. One day, I want to be in my 60's, like him, and have had such a huge impact on the kids I have taught, as he has had on the thousands of people he has taught over the years. Anybody who has ever worked with Michael will all agree what a fantastic and loving person he is. 

I devote this year to the best coaches I have ever had. The coaches that pushed me forward, believed in me, stuck by me, and taught me about what is important. They made me never want to give up and to be the best I could be with the abilities I possessed. To you all I owe the world. 

I devote 2012 to bringing out the best in every student I teach and becoming better at the profession I have chosen. I hope that every teaching professional that reads this can reflect on and cherish what has also led them on this path. All the best in 2012.


Andy Vasily