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Teacher Appreciation Week
The week of May 7th-11th has been recognized as National Teacher Appreciation Week. It is an opportunity to share with teachers how much they have taught us, and how much their hard work and dedication to the youth of America means to us. In an attempt to share with you some of my experiences, allow me to introduce you to some of the people who have had a positive influence in my life. You might not know their names, but I am sure that you have run into people just like them in your paths.
First there was Mr. and Mrs. Coleman, my bus driver and monitor. They were the first people I saw every morning. He used to wear his hat a bit crooked and off to the side. She would sit right behind him in the first seat. You did not want to see her have to get out of that first seat. Every morning when my brothers, sisters and I got on the bus we were greeted with a soft hello. I remember sitting on the outside edge of the seat mimicking him as he shifted through the gears and thinking how cool it would be to drive a bus. They taught me to dream and to plan.
Next there was coach Alvaro. He was my coach from 5th grade until well beyond graduation. He taught me courage, and how to persevere. He would be yelling at you one minute for making a mistake on or off the court and the next offering to help you with a difficult math problem. He taught me the true meaning of team; that no one person is bigger then the team. He was my coach and my mentor. Long after graduation I would run into Coach and he would always ask about my wife and my boys, by name. I was so impressed with that.
Then there is Mr. Delia, my Asia Africa teacher. He taught me how to use chop sticks, which comes in very handy these days. He taught me tolerance and acceptance. He taught me that no matter how difficult a situation you are in, the attitude you choose will go a long way in determining the outcome. He taught me that all children are special and they all deserve our very best, everyday. He taught me to love the job, but not to let the job consume me. To keep your family, your spirituality, and your inter passions in balance. He taught me that education is a life long opportunity that we cannot ignore.
Then there were my best teachers, my mom and dad. They taught me my work ethic. They taught me that if you are going to commit to something, to do it 100%. I remember my dad coming home after working in the dairy for 12 hours and running the rototiller for two or three more. I remember getting up at 4:30 AM to push the car up the road so that he could get to work. My mom taught me that family should be first. She was the disciplinarian and our protector. They recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. They taught me by their example. They taught me that a person should be measured on their merits, not on what others perceive. Measure a person based on actions, words, and deeds, not on a preconceived opinion.
Teachers come in all different shapes, sizes, and occupations. These folks stand out in my mind because they taught me more then content. These influences on my life taught me to respect others, and to put them before my wants and desires. These are just a few of my mentors, and I am sure I could go on and on about those who have had an impact on my life since I have been a teacher, counselor, principal, and now superintendent.
As you read this, perhaps there was an influence in your life that you haven’t thought about for years. Perhaps those influential people are still in our community, or still in our schools. It is never too late to thank them. Many times a simple thank you goes much farther then a gift, or a token of appreciation. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for making a connection with the youth of this community. Thank you for being a role model. Thank you for putting the needs of children ahead of your own. Thank you for supporting the vision and mission of Adirondack Central School. Thank you.
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