The Circle of Teaching

Doug Ferguson

Many of us are familiar with the circle of life. Whether we break out in a Disney tune or think of our favorite nature documentary, the concept is clear in our minds. What’s not so clear is the circle of education—teacher to pupil and back again. Teaching is not like Star Wars, where the mentor gets to see his or her Padawan learner eventually become a master and take on other students. 

Teaching is a marathon relay race. Although our students are infinitely more precious than a baton, we receive them with care from the previous teacher and nurture them to the best of our ability before passing them on to the next teacher. Then we hope, pray, and trust that all the heart and soul we poured into each student will serve them well in the long run. Though it’s something we don’t often get to witness, we have to trust that what we see is only the tip of the influence iceberg we have as educators.

I know, because I am a seed planted long ago that came full circle. My second-grade teacher, Mrs. B, taught me to believe in myself. When I doubted myself in anything, I often reflected on and depended upon the confidence that her inspiration gave me. My family moved away after my second-grade year so I never really had the opportunity to tell her, and she no longer taught there when I was old enough to follow up.

Now a teacher myself, when reflecting on the most influential gifts that my teachers gave me, the one that always comes to mind first is the belief that I could do anything I set my mind to. In my first year of teaching, I decided this was what I would also strive to pass on to every one of my students. I would believe in each of them and teach them to believe in themselves. So, in that way, Mrs. B has inspired every one of my students. 

To teach is to make a bigger difference than we will ever know. If we successfully empower students every year to continue the cycle, then they will inspire more students and so on and so forth. We are making an infinite difference throughout history, because we indirectly reach many more through the positive effect our students have on others.

Recently a group of teachers from my old elementary school visited the school where I teach. They were intrigued when I told them that it was a teacher from their school who most inspired me as an educator. Now, 30 years later, they have passed that message to my retired second-grade teacher. I am so grateful to them for helping to complete my circle.

I received an email from Mrs. B and am preparing my response. It is hard to put into words all she has meant to me. 

So be encouraged. Find ways to remind yourself each day of the effect you have had on so many children. You may be lucky enough to hear from one of them soon or in 30 years, or you may never have the chance to do so, but your effort means more than many students can ever express. I know, because I am one of those students. So, on behalf of all your students, thank you.