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Jeff Dorris

Deliberations from Dorris

Jeff Dorris is the Editor of the Delta Dunklin Democrat

Editorial

Unforgettable teachers

Saturday, August 11, 2018

As students prepare to start a new school year, it reminds me of my school days and some of my memorable teachers.

I have a special love for teachers.

We entrust them with the care and education of our children.

Quite a task.

They are some of the most dedicated people I know.

I had wonderful teachers and remember most of them fondly.

My teachers were great role models.

Many of them were as important as my parents in teaching me manners, respect, and how to get along with others.

My grade school teachers instilled in me a love for reading that continues to be a passion with me and I have Mrs. Justice, Mrs. Vollmer, and Mrs. Coots to thank for that.

I will always remember Ellen Grieves, my seventh grade math teacher.

Mrs. Grieves was in her last year of teaching when I had her.

I struggled with math.

Even though she was about to retire, she came in early and tutored me for an entire semester. No extra pay, just helping a student who needed a little more of her time. I love her for that.

Fred Paysen is another teacher whose influence is still prevalent in my life.

He was my art teacher throughout my school years.

He gave me so much encouragement and I continue to enjoy drawing because of him.

Teachers are a rare breed and in my opinion could never make enough in a career whose job description includes, educator, counselor, friend, life coach, and so many other titles.

Here’s an excerpt from a poem by Taylor Mali that explains what a teacher makes.

What teachers make.

You know what I make?

I make kids wonder.

I make them question. I make them criticize.

I make them apologize and mean it.

I make them write and I make them read, read, read.

Thank you teachers.

Have a safe, wonderful year and remember the words of Ben Franklin.

Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember.

Involve me and I learn.

See you out there.

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