Several years ago, I attended a high school graduation and had the privilege of hearing a former student during her salutatorian speech speak about how I had inspired her when she was in my math class. It was one of those memorable moments that makes teaching worthwhile.
And it shows me how inspiration can come full circle.
I love the feeling that, as a Latina and the first in my family to go to college, I am a success story. I was able to work hard and get into the career I have wanted since I was 12-years-old. I’m able to be a leader in my school. I can inspire students from similar backgrounds as a teacher and as a leader of my local who has the chance to speak up for what she believes in.
That is important to me because along the way I was lucky enough to receive inspiration from others.
My mother always wanted to be a teacher and never got a chance – but always encouraged and supported me. I also had some wonderful teachers who brought the best out in me and helped me clearly see that I wanted to teach.
I now have been teaching math for six years, and I know that if I am good at my job, it is because of her and other mentors and colleagues who guided and supported me.
I also have been active in my union since college. At the time, I was named secretary for my campus chapter and then for the North Carolina Association of Educators. I have supported issues related to how teachers were treated during the pandemic and helped negotiate improved reimbursement for us.
In my local, the Rockingham County Association of Educators, I have been building rep since soon after I was hired – and my goal is to keep members informed. I am always concerned that educators aren’t aware of their rights and don’t have good information about ways they can advocate for themselves – and education generally.
Within my local union, I also want to do smaller things for educators – a note reminding them how important their work is or a small gift and that tells them we are there to support them. Maybe just a bit of inspiration. A little encouragement and praise goes a long way.
