Every school day, teachers enrich the lives of children — and help them overcome learning challenges. In this ongoing series, educators and others share stories about memorable moments in their time as a teacher or student.
An educator shares how she’s improving her mental health using strategies for dealing with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“As I entered middle age, my mind and body changed — and my stress relievers no longer served their intended purpose ….”
An educator who’s come through a difficult year shares the philosophy that’s helped him navigate challenges.
“Far too often I find myself driving to and from work in absolute silence, choosing to take a slightly longer route just to increase my solitude ….”
A writer and teacher describes how she’s improved her mental and physical health through a project that is increasing the number of pollinator-friendly areas across Canada.
“Trying times, amidst the Covid pandemic and onward through 2023, led me to seek outdoor volunteer opportunities…..”
A high school teacher draws on his own life to help a student dealing with a family tragedy.
“Every teacher has a different story about why we entered education. For many teachers, the driving force ranges from ….”
The day a young student learned a memorable lesson from her teacher, about not judging people by their appearance.
“Starting middle school in a brand-new building may mean shiny lockers, spotless carpets, and flawless desks, but the internal struggles ….”
Lessons from a remarkable Grade 2/3 teacher have a lifelong impact on a research specialist and mother of six children.
“She died in 2010, but I think of her often, such as when I see a bird in the backyard or …point out plants to my children….”
Why are some students disengaged from school? A specialist teacher shares his experience in helping young students turn things around.
“Whenever s/he went to school, the student avoided social contact by sleeping in class and wearing a hoodie and Covid mask all day long…..”
A Grade 6 teacher remembers the day a girl with unique challenges arrived in her class, and how helping that student has enriched her own life.
“When I was expecting my first child, I received my student roster for the upcoming year….”
She started off in a financial career …so how did this daughter of a teacher end up in the education field, after all?
“As much I loved my dad and knew firsthand what a brilliant educator he was, when it came time for university, I wanted nothing to do with the education field….”
Achieving a sense of community in a classroom is tricky, a teacher explains, then shares a story about a lost student …and a memorable day.
“In fearing the worst, I’d be assaulted by visions of the Titanic – as if we could metaphorically veer off course, hit an iceberg, and slowly disappear….”
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Every few weeks, people share encouraging essays, anecdotes, and stories about moments that turned their day around.
