To the Editor:
I am writing in response to the “Guest Commentary: Challenges of teaching in Missouri don’t outweigh massive benefits” by Gary Ritter for The Missouri Independent.
I agree with Mr. Ritter. 100 percent.
I always dreamed of becoming a teacher. I felt called to the teaching field. I graduated from Vienna High School in 1960 and the University of Central Missouri in 1963. I began my teaching career at the high school level when I was 20. I taught English, speech, journalism and other related classes. I sponsored a number of organizations, cheerleaders, pom-pom girls, etc. during my teaching career. I received my Master’s from the University of Missouri in Columbia by attending summer school. I did post-graduate work at various times and places.
I was told in college that parents send you their best, and I believe that to this day. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing smiles on students’ faces when they are successful. Students can meet with success in spite of their ability or home life. What they need is a caring teacher.
After I finished my formal education, vacations and summers gave me many opportunities. One Christmas vacation, I traveled to Israel, Jordan and Egypt. I spent thirty days in Europe one summer. I tutored missionary kids three summers in Cali, Colombia.
I always felt secure in my teaching positions. I belonged to the professional organizations, and I still do. I had 31 years of successful teaching. There is nothing about my career that I would change.
I have not worked for money since I retired. I have done more traveling and volunteer work. I have tutored many international students and one American student. I have taught English as a Second Language for many years. In fact, I still teach ESL.
I would encourage any student who has an interest in teaching to become a teacher. I seriously doubt that the student would ever be disappointed.
Becoming a teacher is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. I correspond through Facebook with around 500 of my former students. I have lived a blessed life.
Sincerely,
Mary Halbrook
