I’m thrilled to answer this question because I think it should be at the core of every future teacher’s considerations for continuing to pursue education as a career. What can I do for the common good as an educator?
I think there is a second question hidden within this one: what can I contribute as a teacher? We undoubtedly believe that teachers contribute something, seeing as we continue to send children to schools and celebrate events like “teacher appreciation week.”
From a personal perspective, each of us have been impacted by our teachers. Most of us can remember both the good and the bad ones. We might remember vividly the time that a hard concept clicked, or when we learned an important life lesson that sticks with us. We remember the feeling of getting an “A” on a challenging test or completing a big project. As students (past or present), we are impacted intellectually and emotionally by our teachers. After all, as mentioned above, they meant enough to leave lasting memories.
Teachers are providing for the common good by impacting individual students. These individuals go into their communities, hopefully using the knowledge and practical skills gained in school to make a positive difference.
But teachers also impact the common good as role models.
We’ve already established that they are role models for individuals. Awesome! But teaching is becoming increasingly political and difficult. Many teachers leave the profession for lack of support, salary, or both. However, lots of teachers also stay because they recognize the needs of their students. They understand that education is more important than math, science, or social studies. They know that kids need social interactions, a safe place to make mistakes, and accountability necessary to become a responsible adult.
Teachers become experts about all facets of students, of people, and provide an environment for them to learn… despite the challenges we discussed in class. That is, in my opinion, the definition of leading by example and contributing to the common good as an educator.
As for myself, I believe so strongly that education is the foundation for raising the next generation. I think becoming a teacher is already providing for the common good, but I believe that becoming a good teacher changes the world one student at a time. No matter how large or small the impact, I hope to become a good teacher that exemplifies the above.
