 Learning Through Teaching
By: Roxanne Estrellado – Limjoco
I have a new-found respect for teachers. I never realized how noble such a profession was until I became one. The idea of becoming a teacher dawned on me five years ago when the situation in our country started looking gloomy. I decided to study again with high hopes of landing a job in the States, if not for me then for my children. So, I decided to apply as a teacher.
Difficulties
The first trimester was the most difficult. Waking up early to be in school was one of my biggest adjustments. Meeting the students was another trial. Schools nowadays meant dealing with children coming from different backgrounds, cultures and nationalities. Another endeavor was getting along with my co-workers and superiors. I haven’t worked for anyone so my employee skills were zilch. I was used to being my own boss and going home whenever I liked but this time I had hours to put in. And when I got home, I would still be a wife and a mother. Those three months were taxing! Every month, thoughts of resigning would cross my mind.
Rewards
I have learned so much from being a teacher. I have seen how hard teachers work, how devoted they are to their profession and how concerned they are for their students. I have discovered that teachers work not for the money but for the love of teaching. Being with these students keeps me young at heart. I enjoy teaching them, playing with them and learning from them. I’ve learned to be more patient, more understanding, more trusting and more forgiving because of them. More importantly, I’ve learned to be more appreciative. Every little note, hug, smile, kiss, “I love you” and “thank you” would make me want to be a teacher over and over again. At the end of the day, it is not waiting for my paycheck that counts but knowing that in my own little way, I have touched someone’s life.
Plans
Being a teacher is one of the most under-rated jobs in the country. When I hear someone refer to a teacher as “just a teacher”, I feel sorry for that someone because he probably has never experienced having a great teacher. If the teacher thinks himself as “just a teacher” then he shouldn’t be teaching at all! It is time to change our attitudes and views towards teachers. As an educator, I know I can be more. My plans of going abroad have been put aside and instead I want to make a difference here in my own country, in my own community. Centro Fidei, I’m here to stay.
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