After tucking my grandson, De’Norris Sanders into bed, he requested that I turn off his nightlight. I asked, “Are you sure?” because he does not like sleeping in the dark. He replied, “Mi-Mi, I have it all figured out. Naturally, I asked “what?” He paused and then answered, “Mi-Mi, if you can do it, I can do it.”

I could not help but chuckle at his response. As elders, don’t you just love and marvel at their level of confidence? They see themselves as invincible: Iron Man, Batman, Superman and other heroic characters that I can’t name.

Later that evening, I reflected with admiration on my grandson’s declaration. Wouldn’t it be stupendous, if every child in Mississippi wakes up and starts their day of school with teachers who instill in them the concept that, with their help, they can do whatever their minds envision?

When it comes to learning, research seems to suggest that the formative years are the most critical in mental development. Think about it. What if childcare providers in day care and teachers who work with others model this simple philosophy? “Class, look at how high I was able to stack the blocks. And I believe, that with my help, you can too.”

By now you know the quintessence of this article. As this academic school year progresses, let administrators, parents and students, pause and thank outstanding teachers in the Natchez-Adams County School District for displaying and believing that with their help, our children can and will excel.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not extend kudos to all of the great teachers at Frazier Primary School for their commitment to excellence without excuse. And special accolades are to be extended to De’Norris’s former teacher, Mrs. Samatha Fielder and his current teacher Mr. Peques for helping him to believe that he can do it. Thanks!

Kudos to great teachers!

 

Pam Felder is currently employed at Alcorn State University as the coordinator of special education. She is a professor, poet and a writer.