At this point, you guys must be on a roll! I've heard it from all the kids I've been seeing these past couple of weeks, "School is Boring!". I think that just pertains to distance learning, because all my students have been excited to talk about their teachers!

With learning and developing our relationships with others, no matter what kind of teachers they are (e.g., Cool, Strict, Interesting or Nice, Knowledgeable) education can enrich our lives in many ways - as all of our teachers add different dimensions to the quality of education we receive through their individual contributions.

Teachers Are Real People Too

I know it's hard to think of teachers being "real people"... haha I was a kid once too you know! I remember I used to be so shocked when I would run into a teacher outside of school and be so weirded out! Like, wait-you go to the grocery store? Do you have a family? You don't just live in the classroom?

It's important to remember that teachers are real people who have imperfections and make mistakes just like everyone else. Teachers are managing multiple classes and dozens of students with different learning styles, completing many administrative responsibilities, and often caring for their family at home.

So when you are working through a complex topic (solving quadratic equations during Algebra 2 tutoring or angle relationships during Geometry tutoring), your teacher is doing everything possible to ensure the topic makes sense to all of their students.

The Human Side of Education

Just like all of us, teachers have both good and bad days. Some days are tiring, speedy, exciting or motivating; others can be tedious or draining. A teacher may explain something one way that works well for a certain group of students but doesn’t provide enough help for all of the kids in their class. Utilizing additional resources, including tutoring or other online materials, after school can give you supplemental support when your teacher may not be there to assist you.

I've seen this firsthand in my own tutoring work. A student might struggle with geometric proofs in class, but when we sit down one-on-one during Geometry tutoring, suddenly the logic starts making sense. Or someone who's completely lost with exponential functions finds clarity through Algebra 2 tutoring that breaks down the steps differently. Different explanations from different people can be the key to unlocking understanding.

Why Your Teachers Matter

They are trying their best and in the end, made it their life work to help YOU! Wow, is not that amazing. Think about that for a second-these people chose a career where their entire purpose is to invest in young people's futures. They could have done countless other things with their education and skills, but they decided to show up every day to help students learn and grow.

Be grateful for having all these responsible adults in your life... they are all, in their micro way, showing you your way into adulthood. Every time a teacher challenges you to think deeper, holds you accountable for your work, or celebrates your progress, they're preparing you for life beyond school. The math teacher who insists you show your work isn't just being picky-they're teaching you systematic thinking. The teacher who won't accept late work without a good reason is teaching you responsibility and time management.

Finding the Balance

I get it-school can feel monotonous, especially with distance learning adding that extra layer of disconnection. Staring at a screen for hours isn't anyone's idea of exciting. But try to look beyond the boredom to see the humans on the other side of that screen. They're adapting, learning new technology, and working hard to keep you engaged even when it's tough.

When you're feeling stuck or frustrated, reach out. Ask questions. Use the resources available to you, whether that's your teacher's office hours, tutoring support, or educational videos. Taking charge of your own learning shows maturity and sets you up for success not just in school, but in life.

Moving Forward

Wishing you a great day and encouraging you to stay on task, or at the very least ahead. Getting ahead doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be perfect or won’t struggle. It means being curious; asking for help when you need it; and recognising that every challenge you face will only serve to make you stronger, and more capable.

Your educators are supporting you, I support you, most importantly, it’s essential for you to support one another. You can accomplish this!

Tika