Retired teacher looks back with fondness

As a new school year is about to begin, it brings us all back to our personal memories of school. Being a teacher has always meant so much to me.

Through the years I have been privileged to work with hundreds of students and parents in Schaumburg District 54. Recently I retired as an eighth grade language arts teacher. They say it takes an entire village to raise a child, and I think that applies to teaching as well. Working with other dedicated teachers made teaching meaningful and beneficial to our students.

As I look back at the wonderment and inquisitive nature of children, it reminds me why I became a teacher. Whether it was a question about sentence structure, trying to understand Latin roots, writing a persuasive essay or a comment about a fiction selection, the students’ inquiring minds brought incredible purpose to my life. These students are now the leaders of today and tomorrow. Their belief in education, equality and making the world a better place gives me hope for the future.

In the news over the past few years, the teaching profession has taken a big hit. Often I wonder if the people making the negative comments could just sit back and remember some of the great teachers they had and all the knowledge and skills they learned. What would our world be without dedicated teachers who inspired us with their knowledge, ideas and high expectations?

Over the years I have been fortunate to establish incredible parent partnerships through Discover Chicago and our yearly Lyric Opera field trips. With my L.A. partner, Mr. Vogel, we worked with over 700 parent volunteers who helped create lasting memories and experiences for their children. Thank you, Frost community, for your support, valuable time and partnerships. It definitely made a difference in my life.

Carol Case

Schaumburg