I am passionate about teaching. I spend hours every day at home thinking of how I can reach my children better (the students are all my children), how I can make their day better, how I can enrichen their lives. I discuss, reflect, and I dream bigger, better, and more every day. I lead, I comfort, I support, and I dare to believe in all of my students and what they can offer to the world.
I love my students. I ride with them through their journeys in life; when they celebrate I cheer with them, when they grieve, I cry with them. But more importantly, I teach them. Every day they show up to school and even if they don’t, I always continue teaching. I see my job as an honor, as something only a select few do really well. My job is not just a job, it is who I am.
Teachers are not made in college, they become them in the classroom. Teachers reach out to anyone that enters their worlds, and they impact every single aspect of this American life. Support them, cherish them, and right now, fight for them and their rights. We are here to help America succeed and grow, not to take the blame.
Pernille Ripp 
You are indeed a teacher!!! Stand proud and tall at those Capital steps as many before you have done and protect what you have earned, not been given. You are supported and appreciated!! @teachjane
Almost everyone assumes they can teach but few truly can. Teaching is something you are born to do, it is in your heart and soul and no one can take it away. I realized I had "the calling" in fifth grade 7 vowed no child would have to withstand what had happened to me. You too, are one of those special people. I know this is a tough time for you but don't give up because those kids need you not only to teach them but to love them as only you can do.@JoAnnJ68
I feel the same way about my students. Thank you for writing this post. You should know that teachers all over the country are supporting you! You should receive your governor's thanks and praise not treated like you do not matter!
I love your posts, this one is particularly touching as I too feel I am a teacher (&a learner!). I have wonderful colleagues but most of them.don’t understand how I see a learning opportunity in every thing and sometimes my positivity and enthusiasm seem to swamp them. I also find I become very attached to my students and remember the names, families and traits for years, decades to come. I love being a teacher and think I might be your Irish twin! Have a great day. Niamh Uí