Why?

"Teaching kids to count is fine,

but teaching them what counts is best."

- Bob Talbert

Throughout my first few semesters in college and while preparing my application for the teacher education program, there has been one question that everyone always seems to ask, "So, why do you want to become a teacher?" Until now, I really haven't sat down and put very much thought into my answer to this question. It is not only that I want to become a teacher; I am passionate about becoming a teacher.

So, here is my thought out answer to the popular question:

Growing up, I yearned to teach those who did not understand and I was always the one to reach out to help a classmate. Anytime someone was struggling, I was determined to help them overcome their challenge.  I have a passion for teaching and I want to reach out and touch the lives of young children. I believe that a teacher’s job is more than just teaching basic material. Teaching is an opportunity to touch lives and prepare children for the future.

It was not until I entered the classroom, being on the opposite side of the student desk, that I realized that there is nothing more that I would rather be doing than teaching children. Helping the children overcome their obstacles in the classroom and seeing their success made me feel pure passion for teaching. Being in the classroom working with those children was a feeling that could not be replaced. I felt like the classroom was where I belonged and I've now set out to make it my home. I yearn to motivate the children, all the while teaching them life lessons. There is nothing more rewarding then being a part of a young child’s success, in the classroom and in life. I want to continue to help children reach their goals and give them hope for their future endeavors. The passion grows inside of me each and every day that I become closer to becoming an elementary school teacher.

Sources used:

Gurr, Tony. All Things Learning. N.p., n.d. Google. Web. 25 Jan. 2012.  https://allthingslearning.wordpress.com/tag/great-teachers/
Oprea, Henrick. Doing Some Thinking. N.p., n.d. Google. Web. 25 Jan. 2012.  http://hoprea.wordpress.com/2010/07/14/about-teaching/.

Talbert, Bob. Teaching Quotes Page. N.p., Apr. 2000. Google. Web. 25 Jan. 2012. http://www.teachingheart.net/tquotes.htm.