A Reflection on Rita Pierson's "Every Kid Needs a Champion"

Watching Rita Pierson’s “Every Kid Needs a Champion” reminded me of the teachers I had that invested their time and energy not only into my education but also into my life. Rita Pierson makes a case for teachers who create impacting relationships with their students, and her video made me reflect on the educators who impacted my life. I have had multiple inspiring teachers in my education career. From a hilarious third grade teacher, to an understanding Algebra 2 teacher, to an enthusiastic college theatre professor, educators have constantly had a positive impact on my life. One of the teachers who had to greatest impact on my life was my Algebra 2 teacher, Mr. Prince. Mr. Prince loved math more than life itself, always excited and ready to teach a new concept. Along with his excitement about math, Mr. Prince had an empathetic heart for students who struggled in math, opening his classroom to them before and after school to help them raise their math grades and deepen their understanding. Mr. Prince cared immensely for each and everyone of his students, checking in with them during the school year and always finding time to reach out to students he previously had in class.

            Mr. Prince, along with multiple other teachers and professors, have given me an excellent example to follow when I become an educator. These teachers have shown me the importance of caring for and having empathy for your students, always creating a safe environment for your students to learn and grow. All of my model teachers and professors have shown me the importance of asking about students’ lives and listening, walking with the students through their highs and lows. Ultimately, I hope to be a teacher that genuinely loves and cares for her students, being a role model and mentor along with being an educator. I want my students to know that I love them, and I am willing to help them in any way I possibly can.