Lately we’ve had some disturbing stories in the news about kindergarten teachers.  One case happened in Southern Indiana.  A 5-year-old boy had been complaining about his teacher.  His parents decided to send him to school with a tape recorder in his pocket.  When the boy got home, his parents listened to the tape and were very upset about what they heard the teacher say.  The teacher called the student ignorant and pathetic.  I must say that as a parent, this story just broke my heart.

I think most of us realize that teachers have a tough job.  It is my opinion, however, that once you get to the point that you’re calling a child pathetic, you need to retire from teaching and enter a field where you can go to ”battle” with people your own size.

I believe most teachers are wonderful people.  I think teachers are under-paid and under-valued in our country.  My family has been so blessed.  My daughter hasn’t started pre-school yet.  My boys, however, have had great teachers.  Their teachers are caring, thoughtful and have the patience of a saint.

I am in the process of working on an end-of-the-year project with my 6-year-old.  We’re working on a time capsule that will be opened when he is a senior in high school.  My husband and I are carefully thinking about the items that symbolize what has been a fun and successful kindergarten year for our son.  He has done really well and (allow me to brag, please) is reading well above his grade level.  I read to my kids and try teach them things at home.  I also, however, credit my son’s teacher for fostering his love of books and school.  We’ll have to include a letter in his time capsule about his sensational teacher.

My pre-schooler has two excellent teachers.  He is so curious and his truly motivated to learn.  Again, my husband and I spend a lot of time with our kids, but his teachers also deserve credit for helping nuture his thirst for knowledge.

So, I hope with the few negative stories out there about teachers, we don’t forget about all the wonderful educators out there who love teaching and love their students.  As the school year comes to a close, I salute all of the hard-working teachers out there and wish them a relaxing and rewarding summer.  They’ve earned it!