focusfocus on educatorsis an award winning publication of the Pittsburg Education Association/CTA/ NEA www.peateachers.orgCalifornia Teachers Association Statement of Mission The California Teachers Association exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members; to improve the conditions of teaching and learning; to advance the cause of free, universal, and quality public education; to ensure that the human dignity and civil rights of all children and youth are protected; and to secure a more just, equitable, and democratic society. MAY 2016 Volume XXIV, Number 9 Dear PEA Members, Last week, May 2-6, was National Teacher Appreciation Week and my first full release d week as presid ent. I wa s able to meet with people in different schools, work on issues from different sites with the District, plan for what’s ahead this month, update the Facebook page, and so much more. I also worked on more details for the PEA Day of the Teacher celebration which will be at La Piñata on Wedn esday, May 11th. This day marks California Day of the Teacher as a thank you to all the California educators. Did you know this da y wa s modeled after the traditional celebration “El Dia del Maestro” from Mexico and other Latin American countries? Well, check out this article at http://www.cta.org/en/Parents-and- Community/Day-of-the-Teacher- 2016.aspx to learn more of the history behind our day and why we are so important as leaders of learning. National Teacher Appreciation Week seemed to be popping up everywhere on the internet and other media outlets. As I was looking through my Facebook feed, I saw a lot of celebrations at different sites around our school district. There w as a lot of love shown to teachers by their students and parents. Not being in the classroom this particular week was difficult. As I could imagine my students with a new teacher and not seeing me may have been difficult for them. I missed them a lot, but I know that their new situation is best for them as it is for us as an association. I couldn’t help but be a bit envious of all the love spread, though. One of our colleagues, Ariana Schroder- Chandler, wrote this wonderful post on her Facebook page that she gave me permission to share here: It does not matter if you teach preschool, elementary school, high school, college, or are a substitute teacher or student teacher. Teachers make a huge difference in the lives of those they teach. When I was in Kindergarten I knew that I was going to be teacher. I admit that I lost sight of this goal for a few years, but once I got to college my feelings were only affirmed that this was what I was meant to do with my life. I am so lucky to have been mentored by two phenomenal teachers. I am so lucky to have a job that I love. I am so lucky to have such inspiring educators that every single day give everything they have to the kids they interact with every day. This is not an easy job...I've come home with no patience or energy to be with my family, I've stayed awake all night worrying about a lesson I'm going to do, or thinking about a kid who is struggling at home. I've cried in the bathroom during recess, at my desk after school, in my car driving home, and in my husband's arms when I walk through the door over children and situations that are completely out of my control. This is the hardest job I've ever had, but also the most rewarding...sure, sometimes I feel like the bad guy with no patience, urging kids to work harder, but sometimes I feel like a rock star walking down a hallway or out on the playground with kids who I may not even know calling my name or putting their hands out for a high five as I walk past. There is absolutely nothing else I'd rather be doing with my life. I feel so incredibly blessed to have had such inspiring teachers and mentors in my life as I grew up and began this journey. Thank you to all the amazing teachers who I work and have worked with who inspire me every day and help make those tough days bearable, and who celebrate with me on the good days. This says it all! We are a ll ROCK STARS!!! Sincerely, Tammy Carr, PEA President On educators
