Teachers who define us. Part 2. #28days day 23

When just one teacher believes in you, it can change your world. My grade three teacher certainly changed my life. From a mediocre performer, she saw something in me and sparked a flame. She challenged me, inspired me and believed in me. I don't remember all the details, what I do remember is her telling me to try harder levels of maths and phonics, she encouraged me to find answers without her help. She didn't neglect me, but what she gave me was the confidence that I could figure it out on my own and feel the satisfaction of accomplishment. She helped me see that if I kept trying, I could come to a solution. She showed me that patience and determination are a strong combination in success. In essence she taught me about grit. Furthermore, I remember her being there when I was stuck, giving me clues and when I was really stumped, she showed me step by step until I understood. She showed me that she valued my education and that although she was the teacher, that I was as much part of the journey as she was. She made me feel loved and valued as a child and as a student. She was animated and funny, she was passionate and kind. I remember her often embracing kids who were crying, I remember her smiling and laughing, but most of all I remember that when I looked at her, she seemed to be enjoying herself and that in itself was contagious. 

Before grade three I saw school as a place I had to go, but Mrs Hoy made me love school and learning. I was the top of my class for the rest of my primary school years, not because I was the smartest, but because I loved to learn and absorb the world around me. No teacher will ever compare to her. She gave me a gift that year, a gift that I have held onto my whole life. She showed me that I mattered, that your attitude to learning is what counts (you can choose to enjoy it) and that kindness and passion can never be 'too much'.