The Rewards of A Teacher: A Lifelong Fulfillment of Realized Dreams

I am first and foremost an educator. I am a licensed computer teacher for almost 16 years. I used to be an elementary and high school computer teacher but currently I am a computer trainer for Overseas Filipino Workers and their dependents. I usually bump and chance upon my former students and trainees wherever I go. My students and I would have a small chitchat and I would listen to their life stories and their career successes.

It makes me smile knowing that I was a part of that success. Just observing their facial expressions about how proud they are of what they have accomplished gives me a sense of happiness. All the more if they are famous and recognized in what they do. I am even more happier when I find out they've achieved more and excelled even more.

Together with my high school students years ago

The life of a teacher is a challenging one. I used to wake up every morning worried about how to convey my lessons in a way that the students could understand easily. It is always a trial and error because I would encounter a class who is composed of above average grade students and below average grade group of learners. Sometimes even a mixed class. Yes we do have lesson plans but most of the time, the procedure isn't followed to a tee. I mostly play it by ear as long as they have learned the lesson for the day.

I also have to make sure that I get their attention as well during lectures. A couple of frowns is already alarming. For me teaching is a two-way street, the teacher and learner respond to each other. Furthermore, I have to be in the know of the latest trends: whether in entertainment, fashion and lingo. I need to look cool and not appear that I'm trying too hard. Because I would definitely look like a fool.

The minds of these students are molded under the teacher's hands, and it is such a big responsibility to hold. I sometimes feel disappointed because time is not enough and circumstances fail us to do so. There are moments of regret but there are countless victories. The glee I feel whenever a struggling student can pass or ace a test even once is such a wonderful feeling.

I always have this philosopy whenever I teach, I usually tell my students:

"I do not expect you to learn everything, but I expect you to learn SOMETHING even just a bit that would help you through life to achieve the success you've always wanted."

This is me with a trainee as I hand out the certificate of completion.

Teaching wouldn't make me a billionaire, but nothing beats a compliment that would touch your heart for life if a student tells you this:

"Ma'am, thank you for being my teacher, if not for you and my other teachers, I wouldn't be who and where I am today."

I would then happily respond, "No, thank you as well because you're the evidence of who I am and should be as a person, one who can make a difference in someone's life."

It will always be a two-way street. We exist because of each other and I could never be prouder to see a student who is able to do well because I was a part of his or her journey to fulfill their dreams.

My former co teachers and I
(image courtesy of Armand Ansaldo)

A big shoutout and salute to all teachers who work hard so students can learn! Your hearts are gold!