Worthy beginnings, inspiring conclusions

The best part of my job is definitely the opportunity to visit schools, seeing the tremendous work of our members and to hearing their concerns and vision for public education. Sometimes, though, I don’t even have to leave the office for that kind of renewing experience.

Yesterday, about a dozen future educators, members of the KNEA-Student Program at Colby Community College came to Topeka, toured our offices, visited classrooms across the street at Topeka High School, and even volunteered for a time at the local Mission. What an inspiring group – their commitment gives encouragement that the next generation of teachers in Kansas will be just as dedicated to our profession and making a difference for students as the outstanding teachers who currently serve in our schools.

At the top of the list of current educators making a difference might be Carolyn May, the sponsor of the KNEA-SP group and faculty member at Colby CC. This was her final field trip… she plans to retire at the end of this year. She is such a positive force; conveying to these aspiring educators both the caring attitude AND the professional skills they will need to excel in their quest as educators. I’m encouraged by the promise exemplified by the next generation of teachers I met from Colby. And even more so, I’m thankful for the teachers like Carolyn who have lived that promise for an entire career.