Through The Years

Everyday I drive to work. First I go to Starbucks, and then I drive to work. From the moment I park my car and head to my office, I often wonder if I am making a difference in the lives of my students. In the eight years that I have been working in education, I have seen many students go through different motions of stress, excitement, rejection, and humility. Seems like a lot to watch, especially since I had no desire to be a teacher at first. Some people felt that I should've done bigger and better things, instead of waisting my time and not making a six-figure salary. But then again, it's hard to walk away from something, after you've tried and love it. 

I can remember my first year as a teacher, working in East Los Angeles. One of my seventh graders came up to me, after I had asked him why his work was not turned in after a week. He immediately broke into tears. When I asked him why he was crying, he had mentioned that he was nervous for being in eighth grade next year. He also said that he wasn’t ready to leave the school and didn’t want to lose his friends he’s known since first grade. The hardest thing about trying something new is moving on. At the same time though, it can be fun. I assured the student that if he continue to be an ‘awesome’ student and manage to stay in contact with his friends, then eighth grade and high school will be a breeze. He followed my advice, and managed to stay connected with his elementary school friends. This fall, he’ll be attending UC, Santa Barbara.

After a couple years, I went on to teach at the high school level while continuing in the private sector. There, I met more amazing students that would do great things in the future.

I can recall many occasion where students would come and visit me, either in my classroom or out in the courtyard. Conversations would consist of music, sports, movies, classes and upcoming vacations. I remember one student; he had a passion for helping others. If ever in need, you went to this freshman. He was able to play sports, be on student council, run two clubs and work on fundraising for his class. I remember telling him, “You’re that one renaissance student. You can do everything and still maintain your grades.”

There was another student. Her love for her friends and family guided her through every challenge that came her way. Her parents often had to move due their job, so the children lived with the grandparents. She always had a smile on her face, and would spread a little sunshine to others that needed it. Her friends, both male and female, often labeled her as a motivational counselor.  She always made time for her friends and family. She was and is still is an advocate for others in need.

I can also recall a student a couple years ago that was worried about not getting into college. Most of his friends and other seniors were receiving college acceptance letters. I remember him asking for my recommendation. He wanted to stay local because of his family. He had applied to local state universities, but had not heard from any after his classmates had received theirs. One day I was watching a varsity soccer game. Him and I were chatting about his frustrations about not receiving an acceptance letter. I had told him that patience is not just a virtue. It’s also a pain to go through. He left the athletic field and went home. Within 20 minutes, he sprinted back to the field from his house, holding a piece of paper in his hand. He was running towards me. I thought he was going to knock me down. He hugged me and started crying. “I got my acceptance letter, Mr. Burke!” I had a tear in my eye too. This kid early on, did not put his studies first, which was challenging for him and his teachers. With a little motivation and guidance, he was able to finish his senior year with a 4.1 GPA. Today, he’s a sophomore in college.

I can go on about other students I’ve taught, as well as countless retreats I’ve led. Eventually, you’re going to exhaust every expression you have about reading. After eight years though,  and over 1,100 students I’ve worked with, I still enjoy what I do.

If you manage to stay a teacher, the students will remember the curriculum that you taught in class. If you manage to stay a mentor, they’re going to remember the life-lessons you prepared them for, in and out of the classroom. I bet my life on it.