Dear teachers,
I believe I speak for all parents in Quebec when I say this: THANK YOU!
Not everyone has realized the tremendous work you do every day to educate the next generation. Even though each of us makes commendable efforts to preserve the knowledge you’ve taught them, we’re not professional educators. However, I promise you that we’re doing our best. Even those who are still working to manage this crisis are doing everything they can.
I’m certainly not the only one who finds the situation very challenging academically for my children. I have a lot of doubts about several things. In the past, one of my children struggled academically, and I’m worried when I see what he has to work on at home right now compared to what he’s capable of accomplishing. I question my own abilities, even though I’m hopeful that with determination and the help of his teacher, we’ll get through this.
I currently have three school-age children. So I have to manage my time for each of them, while also taking care of my two youngest, including a little baby who requires a lot of attention. I think the teachers are doing an incredible job, even remotely.
Each teacher has checked in on us, shared ideas for things to work on, and even helped resolve certain issues—all remotely.
I realize that my children will learn more than just academic concepts (mutual support, cooking, family involvement, etc.) during this rather unusual time. It’s a credit to them. Family values will undoubtedly be more prominent, and I hope they’ll help the children on their personal journeys. I still wanted to highlight the teachers’ work. So, dear teachers:
Thank you for the support you’ve provided to each of your students.
Thank you for being there even though you, too, have to take care of your own families,
Thank you for listening to and valuing each student.
Thank you for your help, and thank you for finding solutions to make things easier for parents.
I can assure you of one thing: in Quebec, everyone misses their teachers. This goes for parents who currently feel at a loss, as well as our children, who can’t wait to see you again.
To you, dear parents, how are you finding your new role as educators at home?