The Teacher

Author: Kimberly N. Powell, DDS, MS, FAGD

As the school year begins, parents, students, educators are learning how to navigate another year under very different circumstances. Although there are various and valid opinions about how students should be taught, virtual, in-person, hybrid, I believe that our teachers will continue to provide excellent care, support, and instructions under such precarious times. During the quarantine, I was told of the challenges that parents faced when reviewing and implementing their child’s curriculum, keeping their attention focused on the required subject, and managing time effectively. A teacher’s job was spotlighted! I know that their creativity, patience, expertise, love of the profession was witnessed, applauded, and extremely appreciated. They have an understandably important job and made more difficult during this time of COVID. As the year begins, educators will do what they always do, teach with an uncompromising focus on what is in the best interest of the child. As with all students, their protection is paramount. Every profession, president, scientist, engineer, fire fighter, physician, CEO, nurse, tool pusher, police officer, professor, ambassador, professional athlete, artist, dentist had a first grade teacher, how invaluable is a teacher’s job.