- NEWSDAY.CO.TT - A la Une - Hier 03:28

A teacher’s power to make a difference

ON A daily basis teachers are consistently challenged to look beyond the constraints of their circumstances to make a positive difference in the lives of their charges. While this is not always easy, it requires the inculcation of a positive mindset and mental well-being; a conviction that in their hands lies the power to shape the future. Many see this as a sacred responsibility, hence their persistence to always strive for academic excellence, notwithstanding less than ideal working environments or inadequate resources. Teachers, therefore, hold the key to the better future we all dream of. Thus, the support of parents and the wider society is pivotal in this quest to ensure that all children are able to maximise their full human potential and become productive citizens. The late visionary educator, Raymond Hackett, in his quest to inspire them to be agents of change, always implored teachers to ponder and carefully contemplate upon the legacy they will leave behind. He believed that teacher commitment and dedication are pivotal to their practice. While teachers may plant an avenue of trees, they may not be around to experience its grandeur. In planting those trees, they are convinced of their individual action – that firm belief that they can awaken the full potential of each child, and this would redound to the benefit of society sometime in the future and long after they are gone. Thus, the power of a teacher, if carefully harnessed, can extend well beyond his/her lifetime, making him/her unique and utopic architects of the future. While a teacher’s foremost responsibility is student development, real transformation happens when education extends beyond academics and certification. Teachers who serve as mentors – listening, advising, and guiding – help students navigate personal challenges and life decisions. Modelling values such as respect, discipline, honesty, and cultural pride equips students with strong moral foundations. In a multicultural society like ours, encouraging unity and respect across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic lines is invaluable. These lessons resonate with students into adulthood, influencing their moral compass. Academic excellence also plays a role. Teachers who go the extra mile, offering extra lessons, using innovative teaching methods, or helping students with learning difficulties, can improve performance and student confidence, validating often written-off lives. Teachers who step beyond the classroom often leave the most visible legacies, whether by introducing a school club, launching a literacy programme, or leading a student government. These efforts boost engagement, school pride, and leadership skills. Forming a debate team, a music ensemble, or an environmental group not only builds student character, but strengthens the school’s reputation and agency. Involvement in national competitions, cultural festivals, or community outreach can give students a sense of purpose and exposure. Even small initiatives such as morning devotions, motivational talks, or exam-preparation workshops help foster a positive school climate. A healthy school culture doesn’t build itself; it takes intentional effort. Teachers who consistently model professionalism, kindness, and fairness contribute to a more respectful and productive environment. Supporting younger colleagues, fostering team spirit among staff, and encouraging collaboration rather than competition all help create a supportive work culture. Teachers also play a key role in preserving school traditions, organising national or religious celebrations, and promoting cultural inclusion. In our diverse society, celebrating events like Emancipation Day, Divali, Eid, and Carnival within the school context help students appreciate their identity while respecting others. Even in schools with limited resources, teachers can make a physical mark. This might involve co-ordinating and helping paint a classroom, maintaining a garden, organising clean-up projects, or sourcing equipment through fundraising or partnerships. Teachers who collaborate with alumni, community groups, or local businesses can secure donations of books, devices, or sports gear. Creating bulletin boards, posters, and resource centres can enrich the school’s learning atmosphere. Over time, these contributions accumulate, creating a space that reflects care, pride, and a commitment to excellence. Mentoring new teachers ensures institutional memory is preserved, while establishing simple student awards like “Most Improved” or “Best Citizen” can build morale and school tradition. It would be unrealistic to ignore the difficulties many teachers face – large class sizes, underfunding, behavioural issues, and fluctuating support. However, those who remain committed often find ways around these obstacles through creativity, resilience, and community partnerships. Teachers who embrace continuous development, stay adaptable, and maintain strong values are the ones who rise above constraints and make a difference. Ultimately, the legacy of a teacher is not in buildings, exam passes, or certificates; it is in the hearts and minds of the students they’ve touched. The post A teacher’s power to make a difference appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.