Many of us have been teachers at some point.
Whether we tutored our children, or we taught Sunday school, Bible study, public or private school, many of us have been teachers.
Some of us have been corporate trainers or were called upon to give presentations at work. Anyone who has prepared for any type of presentation knows the time, preparation and planning that go into the subject.
I remember my grandmother getting ready to teach Sunday school, laying out her flannelgraph — characters and scenery to tell biblical stories — and sometimes she would preview it for us; we loved that.
When I taught Sunday school, I would spend evenings cutting out craft projects for children, and also laid out my flannelgraph. Many Saturday nights found me making cookie dough to take to church so the children could bake and decorate cookies for their families. Sometimes, I separated plants for the children to "pot" in little plastic cups to give to their parents.
Jim, my husband, always wondered why I spent so much time writing lesson plans when I taught school. He wondered why I couldn't join him in watching a movie or going somewhere.
But it was necessary to be prepared for my bright little students, to make sure that I imparted the concepts they needed to learn.
I couldn't walk into my classroom unprepared.
Teaching's rewards are numerous — the smiles, the hugs, the light that brightens children's eyes as they finally understand a concept or principle.
Most teachers spend their money on supplies — there is never enough in the budget to pay for extras — so be sure to thank them for all they do.
Don't forget to thank teachers at church as well.
Teachers of all types give up family and social time to be fully prepared for their students.
I thank all the teachers I have had throughout my life for their dedication and hard work.
You are appreciated.
Janice Lynn Crose, a retired accountant, lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CROSE: Teachers, you are appreciated