Why Teach

Statistics were the reason that I decided to teach in inner city Memphis; now I teach for Danielle, Kenan, Tierney, Terrence, and so many more. I have over 200 reasons to continue teaching, and that number will grow until every single student has access to the education they deserve.  I know that each one of my scholars is as capable of succeeding as those students who are statistically advantaged because of their zip codes.  How? I have seen it in their determination and drive, and I have seen their mindsets be transformed to ones of anticipation of success.  All it takes is someone who believes in them.  Someone who believes in them so much they will never give up. 

            The reality is stark.  In our state, there are students who are more than two years behind by the time they enter middle school.  According to statistics, their education will set only 1 in 10 children to graduate college. But I teach because my students give me hope.  They give me the realization that statistics do not determine futures; only individuals do.  Jeremiah gave me hope when he began to not use his unfortunate childhood as an excuse, but as a motivator.  Courtney gave me hope when she took the initiative to get out my projector to teach a lesson to a classroom full of girls when they had a few spare minutes.  All of them give me hope as they stare back at me a week before the TCAP, hanging on to every word of instruction to prove those who believe in statistics are wrong.  They are capable.  I am confident that my students will be successful.  Not because of me, but because of them.  Because of their hard work and determination.  All that has to be evoked in every student is that same hope.