We are fortunate to work in professions that make the lives of children better than they would be without us there for them. While many of us celebrate the season surrounded by friends and family, throughout the year we work with students whom we know are not as fortunate as we are. Some of our students come to us hungry with their school lunch being their only known meal of the day, not being dressed appropriately for frigid New Hampshire winters, or knowing their safe space is in their classroom – not home.
Often, it is us, as educators, who give students food or support local food banks or the food pantry of our chosen faith. We participate in clothing drives or bring in unused coats, hats, and mittens which we give to our students. We listen to students who need to know that a trusted adult hears them.
There are many professions where you can leave the job at the end of the day without thinking of what you left on your desk for tomorrow. Education is not one of those professions. While many people step up to help others during the holiday season, as educators, we do it year-round. It is one of the reasons we do what we do. So, please take just a minute to reflect on all the good you do not only now, but throughout the school year – and beyond.
I want to thank you for all you do, all year long. You don’t always know whose day you made a little better by being there or by just listening. The impact you have is enormous.
Happy Holidays to you and to your families!
-NEA-NH President Megan Tuttle
