Why We Do What We Do

“Time has come for everyone
To think what we have done…
Open your eyes and see it is not a dream.”
--Sonata Arctica “Abandoned, Pleased, Brainwashed, Exploit,” from Winterheart's Guild, 2002.

There is something special about a career in education that one cannot explain; but I will try.

We have a school paper that comes out every month. Although it is not politically correct, our school mascot is an Indian (a non-descript Indian at that) although since the school is Pontiac, one can assume the Ottawa tribe/nation. Anyway, the paper is called The Chief.

My sister Karen was a newspaper editor in high school and now writes for a local paper, as well as, serves a local district as a Media Specialist. My brother Mark was a newspaper editor in high school and now is a publisher of a paper, as well as an editor and writer, in Florida. Both would explain a vast amount of benefits of a school opportunity that turned into careers.

I was a Junior College newspaper news editor and columnist (most of the columns were written when inebriated as I was a Music Columnist and a very weak Film Critic—Go Gonzo Journalism and yes that was a joke), so I really do not count.

So I understand the importance of writing for a paper.

Our school paper has something called “Top of The Totem/Upperclass Acts” which (aside from really being politically incorrect) highlights a few students who excel in sports, music, academics, and the like. Go here to visit: http://www.pontiac.k12.il.us/curricular/chief/chf092507.htm

The students are asked a series of questions about music they like, films, inspirational people and the like. One student this issue commented that his favorite teacher/class was “Mr. Sweetwood—Psychology.”

Kids have included me often over the years, but this one was kind of special because he is a very musical and entertaining young man. His mother is a grade school music instructor, and I would naturally figure he would choose one of the music teachers or one of their classes as a source of inspiration; if not his father who is one of the top teachers in our district as an excellent English teacher. His parents are both highly educated and class acts themselves to be honest.

The honor to serve the district and this young student is truly mine. This was very humbling.

So often we forget to see the forest for the trees and forget the impact we have on others.

This time the teacher learned a lesson; one that was needed and appreciated.