Our Love Letter To Public Schools đź’›
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Ever since the Executive Order was signed to shut down the Department of Education last week, our public school communities–students, teachers, parents, and staff–have been on my mind. It’s hard to say for sure how the millions of students and families who rely on federal funding will be impacted but now felt like the right time to reflect on the role that public education has played in our lives.
It turns out, around 90% of us were public school kids ourselves and many of our kids were (or are!) as well. Even among those of us who were homeschooled or attended private school, the majority say that we want our tax dollars to support public education so that all kids get a good start in life, no matter their background or zip code.
So in honor of the teachers, administrators, and staff who are showing up to teach every day, despite all the uncertainty, I asked you to share what public school means to you.Â
Here are some of your thoughts that stood out to me đź’›
“Public school means opportunity, meeting, and connecting with my neighbors, and it means learning about people who are different from me.”
“It means knowing things society expects me to know, like how our country was founded and why we fought the British. It means being educated by the best teachers my school district could find. Having a wide variety of experiences and exposure to different learning opportunities. I was taught about different cultures, learned two different languages, and was shown a few different types of hobbies (woodworking, metal, working with pottery, drawing, and painting. I learned valuable life skills, like how to work with others, acceptance, and tolerance of our differences.”
“Education for anyone no matter race, creed, or financial status.“
“Having somewhere to go and get an education. Eat breakfast and lunch, since for some kids this is their only meal. When I was growing up, public school was how we met new cultures and different colors of people and we learned to get along. You have to use the tools that are there to keep you out of trouble, like after school and programs like library homework time. It gives you a chance to succeed in life.”
“To me it means making friends on the first day of school, every day learning something new, your first crush, a lot of firsts that you can’t find anywhere, you get a quality education and life skills.”
It’s safe to say that lots of us grew into the people we are today thanks to the lessons learned in public schools around the country.
Keep the positivity flowing! Drop the name of one teacher you’ll never forget in the comments.
Schools are where u meet your first friend and great teacher/ role models. I still have great friendship s from grammar school.
Hi my favorite teacher in 4th grade was Mrs. Hoffman, she was so beautiful and treated all of us the same like we were her children. She had so much patience and always spoke calmly , a great teacher. We loved her, we couldn’t wait to learn from here.
Schooling is very important for our children, not everyone can teach. Schools have structure for children.
Meeting different people who can help each other in class subjects. Made friends, work projects together.
Parents need schools to teach and help children thrive..My daughter is a teacher and she’s a good one who loves what’s she’s doing.
Public School System in the State of Texas , Houston , Texas is in Serious Shambles right now
Horrible !
I went to public school in the 1960’s – 70’s. I loved school. We were taught respect, hardworking and an appreciation for education. We had homework and were expected to turn it in the next day. There were no cell phones or video games. And our parents actually did the work on training us at home how to act. There was no talking back to parents, teachers or anyone else. We didn’t take guns to school to kill everyone, we were humble.
If there was a fight or disagreement you did what you did, got over it and life went on. We learned math, social studies, art and home economics. The education system has gotten too political and needs to be taken down and replaced. I agree with the shutting down of it and I pray that future generations never have to face CRT or any of the other wickedness that previous generations of kids have had to go through. Man has failed so many groups of kids. A lot of them graduate and can’t read or hold an intelligent conversation. It’s sad that so many graduate without even basic life skills. This is also the fault of parents. We need to return to good old common sense values. Return to the God of the Bible and only then will these things be in reach.
Our youngest daughter is a senior this year. Our community has good schools but in general quality of what is being taught and values are declining. Thankful to be exiting the public school system. We couldn’t afford to put them in private school so that wasn’t an option. However The best parts of their school years were the sports teams and available AP classes to earn college credit in high school.
My daughter-in-law Rachael, love’s her job as a teacher and the children she teaches & still manages to find time for her husband & 2 children.
en.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. Larson of the Sausalito School District in the late 50s. She was the ultimate in a teacher, especially teaching African American students! She thought we could all achieve whatever goals we set for ourselves because sh was integral in defining them. She was always so proud of anything accomplished no matter how large or small! She was a very small woman in stature yet very large in expectation! I stayed in contact with her until the day she died by attending her service! I continue to this very day to thank her for caring.
I have very mixed thoughts about public schools. When I attended in the late 50s through the 60s I was relentlessly bullied( very tall, bad skin, and was just different)at school, and beat up a lot by a chronically depressed mom at home. At no time did ANY teacher, counselor, or principal ask about welts on my legs, bruises, or the large scabbing scratch across my face. I was good academically and books were a refuge that helped save me. But I had little respect for most teachers who did NOTHING about the bullies. My best teacher was Elaine Markopoulos, my AP English teacher when I was a HS senior. She was kind and yet very demanding of her students, and I enjoyed the challenges she gave me. I learned so much from her. Friends who have recently retired from the profession could not wait to get their exits. Educational leadership messes with grading systems to get their numbers up in certain metrics, and often dumbs down curriculums for the same reason. One friend taught in a great system attended by my girls that did away with all academic tracking, except AP and IB. She taught Spanish in classes in which an average kid would sit next to a would be honors kid, who sat next to an undocumented kid who was illiterate in his/her own language. My friend was expected to bring all of them up to the same standard set by the state. Then the school system was SHOCKED that they lost several thousands of kids to parochial and private schools or homeschooling arrangements! So I don’t blame most teachers or other individual school staff. I blame the people at the top for the asinine policies.
One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Mixon. I had her in middle school and she was the very patient with me. For thanks for being there for me I gave her a vase and home grown roses. I had few teachers that were my favorite.
As a school librarian. I’m not sure what is so tough currently????
As a retired public school teacher, I am happy for the changes our President will be putting forth. I loved teaching my first 15-20 years, but after that each year became more difficult to teach due to federal regulations. I was a single parent most of my career, but in order to meet the growing federal guidelines, rarely could I leave work at 4. Most evenings I was in the classroom until 7 PM or later, yet not paid for the extra hours needed to meet federal guidelines. I hope moving all back to the states will allow teachers to use their own common sense, creativity, and skills to give our kids the best they can. I taught 2nd grade. My cousin taught high school. She did not have nearly the amount of guidelines to follow as primary teachers did.
My daughter-in-law Rachael, love’s her job as a teacher and the children she teaches & still manages to find time for her husband & 2 children.
en.
I have several favorite teachers, mainly after junior high. Mr. Lerch was a history teacher, but we shared a few books to read and Mr. Szemanski was a sub for my English class, but a long term one, and taught a few life lessons I’ll never forget, like why you should floss. My other favorite English teacher was the book club organizer. I also had a favorite in college. Mr. Clark always seemed to have an ability to make our conversations in class thought-provoking.
Even though I exclusively went to public school, I want to homeschool my own kids. My son definitely has ADHD, and my daughter seems even smarter. I feel public school would only hinder their education, but I realize that not all kids are lucky enough to have that option.
I had a 6th Grade teacher named Carol Patterson that made such a mark on my life. She worked at Washinton Elementry school in Boise Ida. She was sweet and classy and just amazing teacher. I reached out to her years ago to tell her what a diffence she had made in life. She made learning fun.
Attending public schools was the best for me. I only attended one elementary school from kindergarten to junior high! All through school I met some of the most very important people in my lifetime; especially being a baby boomer! They kept the school so clean and neat as well as maintaining a safe environment and workplace. I learned to become someone and gained an occupation. After graduation I attended a predominantly African American highschool which was named after an American poet and novelist named Paul Lawrence Dunbar in Chicago Illinois. But thanks to the elementary school I was taught everything I needed to further my education!
Going to school matters
I struggled a lot academically, emotionally, and mentally when I was in school. To me, it was pure hell and torture from being bullied and not heard when I had an issue with something or someone whether it was a teacher or a student. I have yet to make peace with this chapter of my life. All I’m saying is that public schools today are not what they used to be back in the early days of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
Miss Wanda Allen “Woodland Hills School District,Pittsburgh Pennsylvania”
Hands down My Favorite Teacher!!!
Miss Allen was my 4th Grade Teacher back in the 80’s, She has now retired! But instead of all that she still till this day, does a yearly brunch for her”Special “ Students!
She insist on paying for it all!
Miss Allen is a beautiful person both inside and out and genuinely loves the students that she taught!!!!
My fav teacher was Ms. Dauchy.( My second grade teacher)She decided that we would have a picnic at school. I grew up in poor family and couldn’t afford to bring extra food for my lunch. Other kids teasing me but she supplied everything that I needed. Years and years later her husband was my sons veterinarian for our dog Spike.
My favorite teacher was Ms. Carol Deal. Now, Schimp, I think. I was an Honor Student. An A & B student. I was also going through a very rough time with my personal life. I gained a lot of weight and I was 10 essays behind in her College English class. As far as College went, I could just have retaken the credit, but I also needed credit to graduate. She helped me. On Senior Skip Day, while everyone was at the beach, I wrote 10 essays. Including one about procrastination. I graduated 12th in my class with a 3.9 GPA. Thank you, Ms Carol! She is a wonderful teacher!
My favorite teacher was my second grade teacher, in Meeker, Oklahoma public school district. She was one of the most wonderful persons’and teachers I’ve ever known or had. Mrs. SUMPTER was a very well educated, kindhearted, knowledgeable, intelligent and beautiful person. She is the one that I thank for my ambition to learn and grow as a person. My love of reading comes from her. Her encouragement, personality, kindness and love was shown in her work with all of us that were lucky enough to have her as a teacher. I loved her as much as if she was my own Grandmother and would love for her to know that she meant the world to me for everything she passed onto me through her love and teaching and that she deserved the Award for Best Teacher Ever. Thank you Mrs. Sumter, love you!!!
Kerri Rattan
Hi Grace , saw where you wanted to hear about my favorite teacher.
That would have to be Mr van voris he was a math teacher plus coach ,.. He was a great guy , and I consider him a good friend. .. Tim Cyr
Help working parents please
My favorite teacher was Ms Greer she made class fun and easy to learn I will forever have respect for her and all the public school teachers . Ms Greer was also my daughters teacher and when she learned that she pushed her to levels of success they are still great friends today my daughter was homecoming queen and graduated with honors.
Being that I grew up with a severe case of anxiety undiagnosed and not realizing that was my affliction all along… Of course school was similar to a reoccurring, nightmare. However I did learn how to face certain what back then seemed to be fears, as well as showing me how to ask for help because not everyone or anyone for a fact can read our minds and just know what’s bothering us all as individuals. It’s complicated of course… None the less ,”A LEARNING EXPERIENCE, in deed “!!!
My favorite teacher is my daughter-in-law. She loves her job and her students.
I had many favorite teachers in public schools. I had an elementary teacher that started me on my love for reading. Aside from assigned books we had to read books of our choosing . He had us write essays and book reviews . It was great not to have to say we loved a book if we didn’t. HIS name was Mr. Ludgate. Middle school I had teachers that encouraged me to check other sources and started my love of history. I would walk on weekends 2.5 miles to go and read in the library. Her name was Mrs Schneider. I was a quiet kid and didn’t have many friends , and teachers were kind to me . In high school I had 4 or 5 great teachers . Mr. Teta was an English teacher that you could pose any question to, and if he didn’t know he’d research it for me. I looked forward to school . There were no free lunches . And some of the teachers names I can’t recall , but it’s been 51 years since I graduated High School. The best thing I was taught? To keep an open mind, to have empathy for others and to read and learn because learning should not ever end.
Public schools are almost a waste of time. Their only saving grace is there are a few good teachers that really care about their job and those they influence. My boys had their start in a private Christian school from K-5th grade. I’m am so glad and gave them the best start in life I could.
Despite what’s going on with myself, am ready to heal with my families and my children. I had learned lots on what to do, what not to do, and handle situations. Some situations can just let be.
This was a step that I had observed from myself advocating the importance of NO DAYCARE— words matter. It is an early education facilities.
The first five years are so important in a child’s life, it sets the foundation of development both social and emotional. When it is known as a school facilities with proper certification from all staff and equal pay it helps the families show respect to the teachers. They’re knowing that the teachers and staff have the proper certification and training in teaching our children.
They are just not known as glorified babysitters.
Myself you need to set boundaries among with your families and children.
“ We are Early Educators”.
Mrs. Jones was my favorite yet trying teacher. She pushed me to the limit. She knew that I could do and knew the work and demanded that I studied and gave my all.
I thank her for that fact today.
I actually have Optimism and hope now for the first time in my life and I’m excited for the future of public education. I have been praying hard and hoping for years that the federal government would stop trying to brainwash our youth and allow the American people to have a voice in what happens in our public schools. Without fear of being attacked or thrown in jail for speaking out against the physical and mental health crisis that we face in our schools. Our Public schools are not the safe place for learning that they should be. Kids and teachers have been forced to teach and learn all the wrong things about life But I am grateful that there is still hope. the thing I love about public education is the amazing teachers who give their all to educate the future generations. We have to do better for the kids and I think we will.
It’s awful how Trump cut school funding children need every option and support. Praying for all we are all struggling billionaires have no sympathy Trump is unreal. Stop the cuts. Children suffer
Miss White was my favorite teacher in elementary school. She didn’t pass me she said I read to slow, but I think it eas only so she could spend another year with me in her class. She took me on a boat ride and brought me a coat. Later in elementary school I was a reading tutor.
I will never forget Mrs. Wells for the love that she showed me even through the difficulties I was having in her class with anxieties of test taking and other aspects of the class.
My favorite teacher was Ms Elliott. She was so mean in the 4th grade. When i got her in the 5th i cried. My Mom tried to have me moved out of her class. The principal, Ms Elliott and my Mom and me had a meeting. Well i was kept in her 5th grade class and she was wonderful. I think that was my favorite class ever
It’s certainly a moment of uncertainty and reflection for many communities. Public education is a cornerstone of our society, providing access to learning for all children regardless of their economic background or geographic location. The idea that everyone should have the same opportunity to succeed is one of the founding principles behind public schools, and it’s hard to ignore how that sense of equality has shaped not only individual lives but our broader culture.
For so many, public school was more than just a place to learn academics – it was where friendships were formed, passions were discovered, and where we first began to understand our place in the world. Teachers and school staff were often more than just educators; they were mentors, counselors, and role models who made a real difference in our lives.
Reflecting on that, it’s clear how much the ripple effect of a solid public education can be. Whether it’s the nurturing of a child’s creativity, the development of critical thinking skills, or the simple but powerful understanding that education is a right – not a privilege – public schools have helped build the foundation of communities, economies, and futures.
The uncertainty that now surrounds public education only highlights its importance. Without it, many would lose a lifeline to opportunity. As you reflect on what public school means, it’s clear that the need for collective investment, support, and advocacy for these institutions has never been more vital. What are your thoughts about how we can support teachers, students, and families through this transition?
I enjoyed my music class & the library. Got my first library card when I was 8 yrs old. I am 83 & disabled & still loved to read.
My favorite Teacher i ever had was Mrs. Cunningham she was my kindergarten teacher that gave lots of love and resilience she never allowed me to feel i was reaching to high but always let me know that I could go higher and allowed me to enjoy learning.
I had a 3rd grade teacher that was a great inspiration to me !
My son is in kindergarten and I think his teacher, Mrs. Jacquet, is fabulous, sweet, and so patient!
Public school today is not what it was when we were kids!
All were female teachers that impacted me!
Ms. Rauch Home Ec skills for life!
Miss Gillooly, my third grade teacher đź’›
I’ll never forget Ms. Wood! Her class was what gave me a love for history.