A Letter To The Influential Teacher Who Changed My Life

Having a teacher who inspires us to tap into our creative ventures is tough to find. If you have it, cherish it. Here's a letter to an influential teacher.

To the Teacher Who Changed My Life,

Walking into high school on the first day of school, you never know what to expect. You know you’re going to meet people who may come and go as the years go on, but also know you’re going to meet some of your best friends. Never does one expect one of their best friends to be their teacher: here’s why you’re an influential teacher.

You were everything I needed in my life at the time.

Thank you for being a role model.

High school isn’t the easiest place to grow up. In a time when friends change and you feel the pressure from everyone, everywhere, it is good to have a rock. You were my rock. and influential to me in ways I don’t even think you know. You got up everyday and taught class not knowing whether you were reaching us. Also, you stood by what you had to say and wanted to help us understand it better. Your kindness and intelligence showed as well as your care for us.

Thank you for being a school mom.

Whenever I needed you, you were there like magic. From having snacks ready for me in the closet to being ready to go with the tide stick, I knew you were there waiting. You gave the best advice to me when I needed you the most. You never told me you didn’t have time to listen. Thank you.

Thank you for being a best friend.

On days when I needed someone to just sit there and listen to me vent, you were there. When I just wanted to cry you were there. On days when I didn’t want to talk at all, you were there. When I just wanted to sit and laugh, you were there. Thank you.

Thank you for being a teacher.

You made learning fun and enjoyable. Your class was one of the few I didn’t dread walking into each day. Class was interesting and taught me what it was like to become invested in something. I saw a change in myself and I think you did too. You take the time to do a job that isn’t glamorous or easy and you do it with pride and joy. This is something I can only hope one day I will experience myself in my chosen profession. Thank you.

Thank you for caring.

Sometimes the hardest thing to get in high school is a caring relationship. For someone to show you they’re really invested in you and that they support you means everything. You did that for me and I will always be grateful. You fostered me to become the person I am today, you allowed me to grow, you helped me find me.