Do you believe? Take time to reflect on that question, and what it means to you as an educator. Whether you just graduated and are in the first weeks of your teaching experience, searching for a teaching position, or are getting ready to begin your student teaching, this is a very important question. Do you believe in yourself as a teacher? Do you believe in your students and that each and every one of them has the potential to succeed?
Below is a video that you may have seen before, but I encourage you to watch it again; if you have not had the opportunity to do so, I hope you enjoy! Listen closely, and as questions are asked of the audience, ask yourself - make sure to “listen” to your responses...
Although this keynote speaker is an elementary-aged student, the message he delivers is appropriate for and can be related to all grade levels and subject areas. As educators, we should believe in ourselves and our abilities to instruct and make a difference in the lives of students who are in our classrooms and buildings. If we believe in them, we show them how to believe in themselves. As you journey into your classroom and you are walking the hallways for your first day, or even going back to school tomorrow, ask yourself the question I asked above...remember why you chose this profession. Search within yourself and find what gives your professional life purpose and meaning, hold on to it, believe in it, and carry it with you throughout your career.
Do you believe?
Best,
Mrs. Michelle Bollinger, M.P.A.
Education Career Services Coordinator
University of Missouri (Columbia, Missouri)