For the first time in 32 years, I'm not welcoming students back to school.

[11 Bravo]

And I miss it. After the army, I went back to school (thank you GI bill), got my certificate, and in September of 1974 walked into a class full of 2nd graders. The 32 years that followed were rewarding in a way that I can't even begin to explain. How many people can honestly say that they looked forward to going to work every day of their career? I'm about 2 hours into my retirement, and I can already tell that I'm going to have to do some substitute teaching.

[pooja]

1. I was going to say that there are many vollunteer programs and

after-school tutoring places that would probably love your 32yrs of expertise.

[ClassWarrior]

2. Bless you for being there Bravo.

We need more like you.

NGU.

[underpants]

3. 2nd graders?!?!?

Wow you are brave.

[11 Bravo]

7. Nah, it's the middle and high school teachers who are really brave.

I just remember what a wise-ass little jerk I was from ages 12-18.

[AnneD]

10. Kinder and preK get my vote

for most stars in their crown in heaven, middle school runs a close second 'cause young teens are nothing more than toddlers with hormones.

[CrispyQ]

4. The best to you!

You sound like the kind of teacher that makes a difference in student lives. :thumbsup:

[Tanuki]

5. Your students

were blessed to have someone like you who loved your work and were dedicated to educating them. My mother is a retired teacher and years later she will still run into former students who share fond memories with her and remind her of some little thing that happened that she had forgotten. You have surely touched and enriched the lives of those children in ways you can't begin to realize. Good luck in your retirement!

[seabeyond]

6. ahhhhhh, i love teachers like you

and thankfully about all my two boys teachers have been like you. since we tend to have the best, i gotta believe it is in the eye of the beholder and one gets out of a situation what they chose. cheers to you. there are lots of kids that could use some tutoring and help along the way. maybe your energy can be utilized building confidence and knowledge, one on one, with the children that could really use it. a force that will effect the rest of their lives and leave an impact

[etherealtruth]

8. I sent my children off to school this morning ...

I can only pray they have teachers like you!

I must say my kids have had some pretty wonderful teachers ... there have been a few that were idiots, but overall, I am very pleased with the public education my kids have rec'd.

[CoffeeCat]

9. Kudos to great teachers like you...

...Bravo. :)

I have two children--a kindergartner and a first grader. I understand how important dedicated,
caring teachers are. We send our kids to school when they're so young, and excellent teachers
are so important. I'm sure there are many grateful parents, and students too, who adore you and appreciate your contribution to their lives.

You impacted the lives of 600+ students and they will never forget you! I still remember things that my 2nd grade teacher said to me! :)

Thirty-two years. Wow! I bet you saw many changes during your teaching career. Since you've been teaching a long time, I bet you've had the chance to see your students grow up in the community. How rewarding--and interesting too.

I think it's great that you want to substitute. You can have the best of both worlds--free time AND working with students a bit.

Congratulations on your successful--and continuing career. And thank you for being such a dedicated, enthusiastic teacher.

[bigtree]

11. mom volunteered *20* years after she retired from her teaching job

almost every school day, as if she were still getting paid. amazing commitment. It's got to have a beautiful reward in the children's lives. I've read the children's letters to her as they grew into adults. I know the power of your profession. I salute you and wish you the best for the future.

[karmaqueen]

12. Thank You!

My daughter's second grade teacher was one of the biggest influences in her life. she is 27 now and still uses the life skills she learned from him. He was a young man totally dedicated to his students and their success. I think a good teacher is like a good doctor because it is a profession where you must have the calling, not everyone can do it well. I was a part time reading tutor in the grade schools and have a great respect for teachers. What is expected of teachers is beyond belief, most people have no idea. Thank You for your years of service!

[Ishoutandscream2]

13. 21 years in the business myself

Eligible for full retirement in 8 years. While I like my job as a ninth grade school counselor, I have to admit the stories I hear, the demands of the job, and the struggles that go on wear me down a bit.

One thing is for certain - the kids aren't the problem. It's the dealing with parents who make no commitment toward their children that hurts the most! And, having to deal with abusive parents - god, the stories I could tell!

[Blue_Tires]

14. congrats

i've been subbing in the Va Beach and Norfolk systems until something better comes along, and i realized a long time ago it take a VERY special person to be a successful teacher