Dear Educators,

As we approach the final days of the school year, it’s the perfect moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for everything you’ve done for our children over the past months. Reflecting on your vital role in our lives, I realize that no simple gift could truly convey how much we appreciate you.

Your Daily Dedication

First off, I genuinely marvel at your daily dedication. The fact that you show up to work every single day is a monumental commitment. As someone who tends to avoid germs at all costs, I’m in awe of your bravery as you traverse the veritable petri dish that is a school, comforting children when they’re feeling under the weather (seriously, airborne norovirus?!), and dealing with playground injuries like a seasoned pro.

The Chaos You Handle

I’ve heard some wild stories about the chaos you handle. Just the other day, my daughter jumped into the car exclaiming, “Eli had too many goldfish and threw up! It was orange, and it took three grown-ups and a giant machine to clean it up! The art teacher might need a new rug!” Bless that art teacher. I can guarantee you I’d need a hazmat suit just to tackle that mess. Yet, you handle all of this with grace—bloodied knees, loose teeth, and gummy worms in places they shouldn’t be—unfazed. Your stamina is truly remarkable.

Managing Enthusiastic Chaos

I know how much energy my kids can dish out, especially when they’re with their peers. Yet, I’ve seen you manage the enthusiastic chaos of a classroom filled with 20-plus kids with such patience. Whether it’s a field trip to a farm, the zoo, or even a cave, you maintain your cool and show genuine interest in their learning, even if you’ve done it all a million times before.

Having Fun While Teaching

And somehow, you seem to have fun doing it! I can’t fathom how you manage to enjoy yourself while supervising a gaggle of youngsters who often disregard instructions. I dread the thought of spending a day at an amusement park with my three kids, but you eagerly hop on a bus with 60 excited children—many of whom are experiencing a bus ride for the first time! You deserve an award just for that. Your enthusiasm for learning truly shines through.

Curiosity and Patience

My daughters love asking questions—many questions. And they often share the inquiries they’ve thrown at you during the school day. While they’re curious about math and science, they’re even more interested in you! They want to know everything about your age, your relationships, your family history, and why you wear those fabulous earrings. I can only imagine the personal questions you’ve fielded during circle time, like “Why aren’t you married yet?” or “Did you know you’re 20 years older than my mom?!” It takes immense patience and tact to handle such curiosity, and your resilience does not go unnoticed.

Bringing Joy and Laughter

You possess a knack for silliness that kids adore. I’ve heard about the catchy songs you sing, the bear hunts you lead, and the costumes you wear—whether it’s as Johnny Appleseed or even a donut! Your ability to bring joy and laughter to the classroom is a gift.

Turning Around Rough Mornings

Mornings at my house can be chaotic, filled with tears over lost socks or spilled milk. There are days when I send my kids off feeling frazzled or having not exchanged kind words. But I know this: you can turn around a rough start in an instant. Your warm smile and cheerful “good morning” can brighten their day, even if you have to push through your own challenges. Your compassion shines through and makes a world of difference.

The Love You Share

Loving your own children is one thing; loving a classroom full of kids who aren’t yours is something else entirely. Yet, I’ve seen the genuine care you have for each child. You invest time, energy, and thought into their growth, and you genuinely challenge them to be their best selves. Your love for these children does not go unnoticed.

A Crucial Part of Our Village

For me, the saying “it takes a village to raise a child” resonates deeply. You are a crucial part of our village. While some families choose to homeschool successfully, we’ve learned that we need you on our team. I simply can’t do what you do, but your dedication allows me to be a better parent.

Making a Profound Difference

As I write this, I think of specific educators who embody the qualities discussed here, and I realize there are countless others doing even more in environments where they are the only stable, loving adult their students encounter each day. Your work is a calling, and you are making a profound difference in the lives of so many children.

Wishing You a Restful Summer

I hope this summer brings you rest and rejuvenation, and that you return in a few months, ready to embrace a new group of eager, energetic kids, complete with wide eyes and toothless grins. We will be waiting for you, excited to see you again.

Until then,
Jenna

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Summary

This heartfelt letter expresses deep gratitude to teachers for their unwavering dedication, patience, and love for their students. It highlights the myriad challenges they face daily and the joy they bring into the lives of children. The author acknowledges the significant role educators play in the community and emphasizes the importance of their work in shaping the lives of young people.