I have had the opportunity to live in a few provinces over the years and have had more than my share of experience with schools. Having four children in the school system in three provinces, it is easy to feel lost, even confused. My oldest just turned twenty so we have been involved in the school system for quite some time.
Being the parent is a lot different than being the student. We have questions and concerns we need addressed. Where do we turn?
I must say that over the years I have really come to appreciate teachers more and more. Many teachers become teachers for the love of the children, first. This is made obvious by the amount of time they take with each student and the small gifts or rewards they have for the class. The thoughtful events, concerts and field trips they plan. Every single teacher our children meet will impact their lives in one way or another. Even the kind words they say when they know your child needs a friendly voice, makes a huge difference.
Have you ever wondered how one becomes a teacher?
Ontario teachers must obtain certain qualifications before they can teach. The Ontario College of Teachers licenses, governs and regulates the Ontario teaching profession in the public interest province-wide.
Teachers who work in publicly funded schools in Ontario must be certified to teach in the province and be members of the College. This is not an occupation that just happens overnight. They put in a lot of time and hard work and dedication to get into the schools and work with our children.
It is because of his teachers my son was able to get the help he needed in school. We recognized a learning disability and they helped us get the support and funding we needed. It is because of teachers my oldest daughter has discovered her love of cooking. Her teachers encouraged her to follow her heart and continue in school to accomplish her dreams. It is because of teachers devoting their time in coaching and after school activities, we discovered a talent in my oldest son. A talent that is taking him further than any of us could imagine. Their guidance, wisdom and support goes beyond the classroom.
They say it takes a community to raise a child. An important part of that community is teachers.
I am happy to be taking part in a campaign that is helping the community learn more about teachers. The Ontario College of Teachers offers free online resources which provide parents with more information on their child’s teachers and education.
Everything you need to know and more about Ontario Teachers can be found here www.oct.ca including resources to make a complaint if necessary.
With my youngest still new to school we still have many years ahead of us. I am excited to see what they have instore for her.
To receive their quarterly newsletter, you can sign up here free. http://www.oct.ca/public/the-public-interest/public-enewsletter
Has a teacher went above and beyond for one of your children?
Disclosure- This post has been brought to you by Main St Creative Collection. All opinions expressed are honest and my own
A lovely tribute to teachers everywhere!
Kim, my son teaches at an elementary school in London. I am forwarding this post to him, I'm sure he will love to read it!
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Thank you so much for this post! I'm a teacher in Ontario and I'm glad to read a parent's perspective about us, especially with all the negativity we've heard about over the past couple of years!
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I love, love, love the teachers both my daughters have this year. Both are very kind, compassionate teachers that have a great sense of what each child in the class needs. I can't say that's always been the case for my older daughter that has Selective Mutism. My daughter really does need A LOT of understanding and compassion as just walking into the school or the classroom leaves her twisted with anxiety and any pressure whatsoever to speak makes it worse.
KUDOS to the teachers! Not only do they have to teach the curriculum but they have to deal with each child's unique learning requirements and family situations.