A Salute To Teachers
School is winding down and that got me to thinking if we really appreciate our teachers. It seems today, though, we don’t. In fact, they often take the brunt of much unwarranted criticism.
The cover of an issue of a national news magazine had a picture of a lady and it read that the person had a master’s degree, a full-time job, a part-time job, and sold blood plasma to make ends meet. She was a teacher. This is a sad reality, especially in Oklahoma.
Teaching is not just a job; it is a calling. Teachers spend countless hours planning lessons, grading assignments, and providing individualized support to their students. They often go above and beyond to ensure that each student in their class has an opportunity to succeed. Despite the importance of their work, however, teachers are underpaid and undervalued.
I may be biased since my wife and daughter are both teachers. However, I see firsthand the preparation and care they put into their jobs, and how much they truly care for the wellbeing of their students.
I remember many of my teachers fondly. Several have since departed their mortal journey, but some I still have contact with through social media. I am glad that to several I have been able to express my appreciation in helping shape me into the person I am today. Many stand out, and there is not room to recognize all of them. However, for me, there are three from Tahlequah that were particularly important.
My high school history teacher was Harold McMillen. He made history fun. So fun, in fact, that history became my minor in college. I have studied, watched, and learned the patterns of history, and have used lessons of history in many aspects of my life, both personal and professional. This is due to a great foundation from Harold.
The second was Harvey Price, my high school band director. He not only helped me develop as a musician, but he also helped me reach my goal of playing percussion for the bands at the University of Oklahoma, a dream of mine since elementary school. This gave me chances to perform around the U.S., on television, and even play for a sitting U.S. President. More than just teaching me music, though, Harvey was a leader and coach that led by example. He taught me to have confidence, to believe in myself, to try hard things, and to not give up. He taught me self-discipline, the importance of practice, teamwork, and how to care for and help others. In short, he taught me to be a leader. These are all traits I still use to this day.
The third was my journalism teacher, Mike Meigs. He gave me the confidence I needed when I needed it most. He told me I could write. I had always been a strong writer, but his telling me that simple sentence in front of the entire class gave me the exact boost I needed at that time. He went on to teach me newspaper layout, photography, photo development, and the basics of public relations, which has become my profession for the past 33 years. It is because of him I have the career I have, and that I have gotten to experience so many things such as promoting European choirs, writing talking points for U.S. presidential and Senate candidates, and helping Cherokees and other Native Americans with information about living a healthier lifestyle.
Teachers are the unsung heroes of society. They dedicate their lives to educating and shaping our youth, yet often do so without the recognition and support they deserve. It is time that we truly appreciate the work that teachers do, and advocate for better pay and support for these remarkable and dedicated professionals.
Randy Gibson is the CEO of RDG Communications Group, LLC.
