John Kitsco

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Being married to a teacher for 30 plus years has given me much to think about.
As a husband and father I am thankful for all the moments where Vicky used
her teaching skills to guide our small family. And now, our youngest daughter
is in  front of a class daily serving as a further reminder of the great importance of this profession. Teachers are special, unique. I remember my
first grade teacher, my fifth grade and my grade seven art teacher. Not to
leave out Mr. Parker, our crusty but wonderful shop teacher. Teachers do
influence the lives of students, helping often to guide them through tough
moments. And inspirational moments. Impart knowledge, yes, but also the
daily management of unexpected circumstances.  Teachers need to be prepared
daily for the work they do inside and outside the classroom. My wife still speaks
of her special moments with professors, student teaching and eventually one
on one piano instruction. Teachers teach. Students (hopefully) learn and then
sometimes students teach and Teachers need to learn.

So let us give thanks for the teachers in our lives, taking a moment or two
on Oct. 5 to reflect on the influence teachers have had on our lives. Hopefully
most of it is positive, let us be thankful for the dedication and time invested
by teachers in the annual new crop of students. Surely another fine harvest.

Congratulations teachers of the world, whether it be teachers in Japan
(both our daughters Chris and Trish) taught English in Japan. And may
students of the world continue to surprise and amaze you....