Teacher Appreciation Week

"I’ll never forget Mrs. Carolyn Lee, my 6th-grade teacher. I was 11 years old and hurting. My parents were splitting up, and it was pretty acrimonious. My life felt uncertain and turned upside down. Mrs. Lee’s class tethered me… it felt exciting, dynamic, and full of life and conversation around relevant issues. I remember a lesson on feminism and me raising my little fist in the air and shouting, “Women’s rights!” Most importantly, Ms. Lee saw me. When she learned of my family situation, she invited me out for ice cream and asked me how I was doing. I remember the scoop of mint chip ice cream piled in a bevelled glass bowl. I remember the gleaming spoon. But mostly, I remember the kind expression on her face as she gave me space to share my worries and fears. Nearly 40 years later, I remember this experience as if it were yesterday."

Shane Safir, Corwin Press Author