Sometimes life isn’t fair to everyone. As a teacher I learned first hand just the consequences of reality for many. As a memory draws near, the scene shifts from the present moment to a time in the past. The time and place is portable 7 in May of 2023. I just finished first period final exams and all who was left in the classroom was a boy and myself. What happened next had a profound impact on me as a teacher.
Although I am terrible with names, I remember the scenario in my head very well. As the student finished his exam, what began was a dialogue. I asked him where he’s been, and he laughed and replied, “ I live between here and Atlanta.” I told him it was nice to see him and the conversation turned much deeper. Out of left field, he said, “ I only came to school today to see you and take your test. No one is like you, I enjoy coming to your class.” Hearing those words caused me to pause for a second. My tear ducts began to water yet I held back, I can’t show emotion in this moment were my mental thoughts. I told him he should go to his other finals, but I never did find out if he did. Nonetheless, the conversation turned to music. We talked about what I thought were Atlanta rappers, but little did I know I was wrong. Mr. Kennedy, he said, the rappers you talked about, none of them were born in Atlanta.” He went on to tell me about a song called “Vacant House.” He said it was one of his new, favorite songs. I listened to it on my way home that day.
Upon listening to the song, I realized a lot about that boy. He was a quiet child in the classroom, coming in 1st period seldomly, but he always did his work. He passed the class after turning in most of his work even if it was late. I always treated him with respect, never questioning him or coming up with pre-conceived notions about him and I think he appreciated that. I always asked him about his day, how he was, and that it was nice to see him. But, on that day I realized life must be much different for him than it is and was for me. It’s not about leaving a child behind, it’s about seeing them through until the end because you never know what they go through for teenagers seldom tell you anything about their life. In the end, it’s not about test scores and perfect attendance, life as a teacher, to me, is having a lasting impact on a child’s life.
Perspectives of the individual tell you a lot about life and yourself. That whole year had its ups and downs. From parent meetings, to student behavior problems, to personal struggles, it was at this moment I realized at the end of the day, I meant something to someone else. I’ve learned through life never to judge a book by its cover, to diligently care for and nurture those who need you the most, and on the spring day in May, l learned that I had an impact on a young man’s life and it made all worth while.
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