Monday marked the beginning of Teacher Appreciation Week. The week is dedicated to celebrating the work of teachers and thanking them for the support they give students both inside and out of the classroom.
You can find teachers throughout Step Forward’s service areas; whether it's preparing young minds for kindergarten at Head Start or helping adults prepare for life-changing careers, Step Forward teachers are dedicated to transforming lives in our community. This year for Teacher Appreciation Week, Step Forward wanted to highlight the passion behind the profession of our teachers. We asked teachers, why they chose education as their career path, check out some of their responses below.
"The reason I chose teaching was to make a difference in a child’s life as well as their family. I enjoy sharing what I have learned with others. I appreciate Step Forward, they have done a lot for me and my family." – Karen, Head Start Assistant Site Administrator at William Pat Day Early Learning Center
"I became a head start teacher because I have such a joy and passion for teaching young children, and I’ve always wanted to serve low-income communities. The most important ages for brain development are birth through age 5, and I strongly believe in having a safe and nurturing place for ALL children to learn and grow.” – Kourtney, Head Start Teacher at William Pat Day Early Learning Center
“Step Forward has dedicated teachers. Teachers that look at the kids as their own. They prepare them for what’s to come. Seeing the bond created between the kids and teachers really warms my heart. Seeing how the kids truly do learn from the teachers, it’s something that not a lot of people can do. Step Forward definitely knows what these kids need by giving them the best teachers. I’m very grateful to be a part of something so great and powerful.” - Ynalis, Education Aide at Puritas Early Learning Center
“I became a teacher because I truly care, I am sincere and passionate about learning and I have never stopped learning myself. I love the challenge of creating new ways to help the clients of Step Forward no matter what age, their learning style, or barriers. My goal is to reach out and let them know that learning is life-changing and a necessary part of progression and achievement.” – Zola, Adult Education Instructor
"I started teaching children at an early age. I got a thrill out of seeing children learn and I wanted to be part of that world. I have had much success in the early childhood field, and I am enjoying every minute of it. I feel that teachers are so important to Step Forward because our teachers are the backbone of society. We are role models to children, we offer guidance, dedication and give young children the power of education." - Cheryl, Assistant Teacher at George L. Forbes Early Learning Center
Teachers have an irreplaceable role here at Step Forward and in communities across the nation. Their perseverance and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Thank you, teachers, for all that you do.
If you have a passion for education and supporting students, you may be a great fit for the Step Forward team! Step Forward currently has several education staff positions available. You can learn more about open positions and apply here.
Head Start and Early Head Start programs are now enrolling for the 2021-2022 school year! Learn more and enroll your child here.