According to Studies Weekly, the average teacher positively impacts over 3,000 students during their career, and 88 percent of people say a teacher had a beneficial effect in some area of their life. Students spend eight hours a day, and about 180 days a year with their teacher; they are bound to have some sort of impact on them. The stress load of learners is often overwhelming, and it helps to know that they have someone on their side.
Teaching demands great patience, understanding, and kindness, among other attributes. It is not for the weak. Students can often be rude or lazy; they are not always kind, especially in this age. Educators have the task of supporting their pupils and making sure they actually enjoy school at the same time. Tyler Cole, senior, puts it this way, “No matter what class you take, as long as you have the right teacher, it is easy to excel.” Having a teacher who is passionate about their job makes being in school all the more fun. Cole is a leader in FCA, now called Rooted, and a member of the Mayor’s Youth Council, as well as a Student Ambassador. He also said, “Mrs Mundorf is my favorite teacher, even though I’m not really interested in English.” Cole feels that because Mrs. Mundorf has a bubbly and fun way of teaching, the class is more enjoyable for him. He left with an appreciation for books and a newfound hobby of reading. The National Library of Medicine once said, “Students’ future educational achievement and adaptability will also be impacted by this association, in addition to their psychological, physical, interpersonal, and social growth” (Wang). Feeling excited when one learns helps them retain information more successfully, making them excel in school.
The high school is an excellent place to find out what one wants to do with the rest of their life. There are many educators and staff who love what they do, and it shows. Coley Peters, junior, is a perfect example of a pupil who discovered what she wants to accomplish in the future through the high school. Peters found out she wants to be a Marriage and Family Therapist because of a job shadow she attended. Tom Kettmann, school counselor, originally encouraged her to attend this opportunity at Unity Point Hospital. Kettmann has a true gift when it comes to inspiring young students; throughout his many years at Marion, he has helped thousands of kids. Peters said, “I had no idea what I wanted to do, then Kettmann started asking me all sorts of questions about me. I left the meeting knowing I wanted to be a Marriage and Family Therapist.” She is forever grateful that Kettmann took the time out of his day to help, though he had dozens of other students to care for, too.
Everyone has that one staff member in their school, whether it be a teacher, coach, or counselor, who connects with them on a deeper level. Due to the kindness of the high school staff, thousands of past and current students can say that they had someone who believed in them. They had someone who took the time to get to know them and help them find a passion for a career. Having that one person who truly understands makes all the difference throughout the rest of life, having memories of hope for the future. While some may not click with all teachers, it is invaluable to acknowledge and thank that one staff member who changed everything.
