What is the world coming to?

These days, hearing about mass shootings is all too common. As I write this, there is a news story on regarding the Paris attack and the band that was a part of the tragedy there.

For many, mass shootings are a scary, but rarely thought of, event. They enter our minds and hearts when news stories share the horrors of the events, but we don't think of them throughout the day. However, for teachers and school staff, they are always in the back of our minds. I think I speak for most teachers and administrators when I say that we are hyper vigilant these days in regards to intruders.

When I was in college, I was never told that if the need arose, I would be asked to put my life on the line for the children in my care. C told me one time that he never expected to have to worry about his wife going to work and fearing for her life in a school setting. But that is all too often the reality. Not that we are asked to put our life on the line - but, and again I'm speaking for others, I think most of us would gladly lay our life down to save those sweet, innocent young souls. That's why we got into this profession - to save kids. That can mean lots of things, but every teacher I know spends as much time worrying about his/her students as they do worrying about their own families. And to lose a child you have that connection with? Unthinkable. Heartbreaking. Absolutely terrifying.

I shouldn't have to worry for my safety at work. I should be able to leave my classroom door open to allow the Hades-like temperature of my room to disperse into the hallway. I shouldn't jump a little every time I hear the intercom or an unusual sound at work. But most of all, parents shouldn't have to worry about the risk of sending their children to school and wonder if they will see those children again. What a screwed up world we live in where those things are not a reality.

I work in Oklahoma - one of the absolute last states in regards to teacher pay. I have a master's degree and make less money than many people without a college education. However, I love those children in my care. I love seeing them smile, getting hugs, and hearing their triumphs and struggles. Most of all, I love hearing my kiddos who have moved on come back and tell me something they learned or remember from their days with me. I will put up with the pitiful pay and abysmal government support in order to serve those kids. But please, please, understand that when I gripe about my pay, I'm much more than a glorified babysitter. I teach your children. I dry their tears. I bandage boo-boos. I problem solve and listen to the concerns of their hearts. And I protect them from all the horrors no one should ever have to even consider when they send their child to school. And I do it with a smile because this is what I love.

So take today to thank a teacher. Not just for "putting up with your kid." Thank them for being willing to risk their lives every day to keep your baby safe.


Live from Okieland,
E