To The Teachers Who Encouraged Us

By Jada Parrish

Posted: 05/02/18

Category: Personal

Last week I attended an event at the school I went to as a child - St.Michael’s Episcopal School. They are moving to a new campus and invited all of the 21+ alumni back to enjoy drinks, food trucks, and say goodbye to the school that all of us knew.

Not only was the event a blast with free food + drinks, but it was incredibly nostalgic. So many old teachers and friends were present. My mind was flooded with memories being back at such a familiar place, surrounded by a group of people who I have not seen in years.

One of my favorite people I caught up with was my childhood art teacher. I remember her classes so clearly because it was the class I looked forward to most. I remember her sitting us down to teach us about Van Gogh and Monet, and sending us off to create our own little masterpieces inspired by their work. My love for art got ignited early.

After her classes, I graduated to high school where I was fortunate enough to have a photography teacher who encouraged my crazy ideas and further ignited that artistic passion. Then came college, where I was a studio art + photography major and spent my entire college career learning from my talented professors who were simultaneously pursuing their own artistic paths.

My teachers and professors inspired me. They went above and beyond to teach me, but most importantly they encouraged my to follow my passion. Without their guidance, I know without a doubt that I would not be doing what I am today.

So here is to all of the amazing teachers out there! I’m sure at times it may feel like your work and dedication may go unnoticed, but your role in your student’s lives is so pivotal. You’re helping mold them into the people they will become and sparking passions within them they didn’t know existed. You are rockstars. You have no idea how impactful you are. And I am so fortunate to have been surrounded by so many great ones.