This summer, I was tasked with overhauling Retirement Homeroom, a National Life website dedicated to helping Educators and School District Employees plan for retirement. Like any project, I started with an open mind, gathering as much knowledge as I could and putting myself in the shoes of those we seek to help: Teachers. I found myself back in the classrooms of my favorite teachers, reflecting on their contributions to who I am – and where I am – today. I thought about the relentless “one-paper-every-weekend” assignment in Mr. Hayes’ AP English Class: I mastered the art of the m-dash. I left more prepared for college than I ever imagined. I became a writer.
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Look them in the eye and say, ‘Thank you for your service’
LifeChanger of the Year finalist Keil Hileman has one piece of advice when it comes to Veterans Day (well, really any day of the year): If you see someone who has served our country, look them in the eye and say, “thank you for your service.”
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Lessons from LifeChangers: Crisis Becomes Rebirth
Today I sent emails to all of my students. Some of them have failing grades and multiple absences. I needed to give them a piece of my mind and set them straight. I pulled no punches and dropped a truth bomb. I wrote, in all caps: I BELIEVE IN YOU. I HAVE YOUR BACK! Let’s work together to get you back on track.
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Lessons From LifeChangers: The Rewards of Teaching
This year is, without a doubt, a year of many firsts and a year of reflection. Everything I normally do as a teacher has had to be modified or deleted. But one thing for sure I have tried not to change is the impact I have on my students. Being an inspiring and impactful educator is why I chose the teaching profession.
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