As we look back on the year 2020, it’s safe to say that it has been an incredibly challenging and tumultuous time for all of us. From the global pandemic to widespread social and political upheaval, it’s clear that this year will go down in history as one of the most eventful and unpredictable. In the midst of all this chaos, a group of brave individuals embarked on a new journey – nine first-year teachers.
These teachers, fresh out of college and full of passion and determination, started their teaching careers at a time when the world seemed to be in turmoil. But despite all the uncertainties and challenges, they persevered and continued to make a positive impact on the young minds they were entrusted with. As we approach the five-year mark of their teaching journey, let’s take a moment to profile these inspiring individuals and see how they have navigated through the past five years.
Meet Samantha, a former journalism major who decided to switch gears and become a high school English teacher. When asked about her first year of teaching, she recalls feeling both excited and nervous. However, as the pandemic hit and schools transitioned to virtual learning, Samantha found herself facing a whole new set of challenges. But through her determination and adaptability, she not only managed to keep her students engaged in the virtual classroom but also provided them with much-needed emotional support during a difficult time.
Then there’s Michael, who always dreamt of becoming an elementary school teacher. But little did he know that his first year of teaching would also see him tackling issues of racial and social injustice in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. Michael used this opportunity to teach his students about empathy, understanding, and equality. He believes that even at a young age, children have the power to bring about change and his students proved him right by organizing a peaceful protest in their school.
For Jenna, it was a lifelong dream to teach math and she was ecstatic when she landed her first job at a middle school. But just a few months into her first year, Jenna faced a major hurdle when she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing grueling treatments, she continued to teach, and her students were a huge source of strength for her. Not only did they rally around her with love and support, but they also learned the lesson of resilience and never giving up.
These are just a few of the many inspiring stories of our first-year teachers. Each one has faced their own unique set of challenges, but they have all emerged as true warriors, determined to shape young minds even in the most trying of circumstances.
No one knows this better than Carter, who has been teaching high school history for over 30 years. He was fortunate enough to be a mentor to one of the first year teachers and has seen her grow and evolve over the past five years. Carter believes that although these young teachers may have faced more challenges than most, they have also grown and adapted more than others. He says, “They have been through the fire and have come out stronger and more resilient. I have no doubt that they will go on to become great educators in the years to come.”
But it’s not just their perseverance and resilience that make these first-year teachers stand out, it’s also their unwavering dedication to their students. Despite the challenges of virtual learning and the constant changes in education policy, they have made sure that their students receive the best education possible. And their students have noticed.
Ella, a high school senior and one of Samantha’s first students, says, “Miss Samantha has not only taught us English, but she has also taught us important life lessons. I’m grateful to have had her as a teacher during such a tumultuous year.”
As we celebrate these first year teachers and their incredible journeys, it’s important to also acknowledge the contributions of all teachers. 2020 has highlighted the crucial role that teachers play in our society and it’s a reminder that we must appreciate and support them, not just during difficult times, but always.
So here’s to all the first-year teachers who have braved the storm and emerged as shining stars, guiding and inspiring the next generation, even during one of the most tumultuous times in living memory.
