“The influence of our teachers is indelibly woven into the fabric of our lives.” This is the first sentence in chapter one of Julie Schmidt Hasson’s book Safe, Seen, and Stretched in the Classroom. I have previously shared this beautiful quote in my writing because I know that the impact teachers have extends far beyond the walls of their classroom. Consider this:  How many other professions have the ability to leave an enduring legacy within the hearts and minds of those you serve?

With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility

I am constantly in awe of the work teachers do. Having closely observed educators throughout my own educational journey as a learner, I now have the privilege of stepping into schools to witness this magic unfold daily. All it takes is one moment, one fleeting interaction or gesture to deeply impact the direction one decides to take. Reflecting on the famous quote associated with the comic book series Spider-Man, “With great power comes great responsibility” often attributed to the fictional character Uncle Ben imparting wisdom to Peter Parker (Spider-Man) as part of life lessons, I am reminded that every word and action carries weight. Everything you say and do matters, as words and actions possess the transformative power to shape the worlds in which you live. The book The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, highlights this idea – “The word is a force; it is the power you have to express and communicate, to think, and thereby to create events in your life.”

Let’s face it, haven’t we all have had interactions that deeply resonate because they have either left us feeling empowered or disheartened? Often, the unfavorable actions of others are less about you and more about them and their own obstacles they are facing. When I think back to teachers and people from the past and present whom I’ve interacted with, they were fuel to my growth, motivating me to overcome challenges and pursue my goals.  

Watching my own children navigate their school journey, I’ve witnessed the profound impact teachers can have on shaping their experiences. For instance, my older son had a kindergarten teacher who was kind, empathetic, and loving. She took the time to understand him, asking about his feelings and offering support. This positive influence has left an enduring mark, contributing to his confidence as he navigates learning.

On the other hand, my younger son wasn’t as fortunate. His kindergarten teacher had a markedly negative impact on the course of his life. Constant yelling in the classroom and a lack of understanding created an environment where he felt afraid to be himself, take risks, and fully embrace the wonders of learning. Even now, in 7th grade, he recalls the experience, and it breaks my heart to see how it has affected him. When I think back to his elementary years, I can now see how deeply sensitive he was to the words his teachers imparted and the worlds in which they created. Taking everything to heart, for my younger son, it has not always been an easy road. I have seen him navigate years where his teachers have harnessed his unique gifts or pushed him to learn in a traditional structure that didn’t suit this learning style. However, I have never given up on the goodness of teachers because I am close to the work and am able to see what is possible.

Amidst these challenges, yesterday afternoon brought an email from my son’s teacher, representing his entire middle school team, that altered the course of my day. Allow me to be clear; I’m not the parent gracing award ceremonies to watch my children receive accolades for academic excellence. I’m not the parent with children admitted to the prestigious enrichment program in our school district. Typically, I’m not the parent attending conferences listening to all-star academic reports. Yet, what I do know is that my children possess beautiful hearts and empathetic souls. They consistently inquire about my day, offering hugs when it seems I need one and asking if I’m going to be okay when I’m not my usual self.

The email read:

Greetings Mr. and Mrs. Kaufman, 

I hope all is well with you and the family. I wanted to pass along a quick note on behalf of ALL of Team 7 and let you know what a pleasure it has been to have Ethan in class. He is doing such a wonderful job across the board. He is both polite and dedicated to his work. Day in and day out, Ethan consistently helps to brighten our day. 

Just thought you should know. 

Have a great weekend! 

Tears rapidly started pouring down my face.  At that moment, I wondered if this teacher will ever truly know the impact he has made on my child and me. I wondered if he recognized the legacy he was building or if he knew that my child happily runs to school everyday because he knows his teachers care. Will he ever know that a gesture that seemingly took him less than five minutes to write, left an infinite impact on our hearts?  In the book Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact by Meghan Lawson, she shares, “You have deeply impacted students too. Some of them will tell you about your impact and many may never tell you, but you were leaving a legacy.”

Moving Forward

The greatest educators I have ever known invest the time in building classroom community, instilling confidence, and providing the tools and spaces for learners to think, share, speak, listen, and thrive. I thought back to Julie Hasson’s words, “The seemingly ordinary actions and interactions that occur in classrooms have extraordinary implications.” All it takes is one moment, one fleeting interaction or gesture to deeply impact the direction one decides to take. In that moment, I realized that teachers like the one who sent the email are the unsung heroes shaping futures and leaving a lasting legacy beyond the classroom.

Actionable Ideas to Implement Tomorrow 1. Create Positive Learning Spaces:  Encourage educators and leaders to implement a culture of positive feedback within their learning environments. This can be as simple as starting meetings or classes with a brief moment for acknowledging and celebrating achievements, both big and small. By fostering a positive atmosphere, educators can motivate students and colleagues alike, creating a supportive community that promotes growth and resilience. 2. Professional Learning on Harnessing Your Emotional Intelligence:  Provide opportunities for educators and leaders to enhance their emotional intelligence skills. Emotional intelligence is crucial for understanding and responding to the needs of both students and colleagues. Implement workshops focused on empathy, active listening, and effective communication. By improving emotional intelligence, educators can build stronger connections with students, create a positive learning communities, and navigate challenges more effectively.