What do you do to be involved in the community?

Short, sweet, and to the point- I am a public school teacher.

As I’ve said before, I never would have imagined that one day I would be here- standing in front of the youth of our country and serving as an educator. Yet here I am! The reason why I count this as being involved in the community is because in the district where I teach, communities are defined by the areas that surround our 10 high schools and for me, I live in the very community where I teach. Yes, the same students that I currently teach (or soon will), are my neighbors, the students who bag my groceries,  work out beside me in the gym, and deliver food to me. Living and working in your community is NOT for the faint of heart!

During my time in this role, I have made it a point to show up for my students in the best of ways. Whether it’s supporting fundraisers, attending games, or shopping at the stores where they work, I recognize that when I show up for my students, I am also supporting my community. Do I volunteer? Yes. Do I make donations? Yes. However, I truly believe that the greatest contribution that I make to my community is what I do in the classroom. Developing and shaping tomorrow’s future is the greatest involvement that one could ever have and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity.