"Just" a teacher.

Over 300 women were nominated for "San Diego Woman of the Year". I was honored to be one of those named a finalist. There were many women there that I was in awe of - and I'm just a teacher. I know I do much more than teach and I see myself as much more than a (math/computer science/high school) teacher. But when asked the general question "What do you do?" I say, "I'm a teacher." (And wait for the conversation to continue to share the other parts of me). The point is, as a teacher, we aren't viewed as a "mover and shaker" of society. It's not an occupation that people are "impressed" with. Sure, they're amazed that there are those of us out there that willingly "put up" or "deal" with kids (especially teenagers), but it's definitely not the same reaction that I got when I was an engineer. (Frankly, I work a heck of a lot harder as a teacher than I ever did as an engineer for A LOT less pay.) As much as I do things because it helps students and don't need outside validation to know in my heart it's the right thing for me to do, it's nice to get from time to time. A little appreciation and recognition for things you would gladly do goes a long way to recharge your heart and soul.