This Saturday I was invited to present at Kappa Delta Pi’s “I am a Teacher” Expo.  I was the keynote speaker and presented on my story and background, then I told about the 5 things that I believe all teachers must do to be successful.  I love presenting to pre-service teachers and there was a wide range of students in education from only a couple years in the program to ones who were student teaching.  What a great day for feeling passionate about teaching and learning!  I was so honored to be asked to speak and hope that I touched them in some way with my passion for what I do.

I had such a great welcome and was given a wonderful card and gift after presenting.  Kappa Delta Pi is awesome!

                                                                                   My view of the room 20 minutes before presentation

My favorite part of the day was at the end when several students came down to talk to me.  I love meeting education students and hearing their story.  The comment that made me smile the most were the two girls that said they wanted to teach inner city but were being discouraged by others to go in this direction.  After hearing my presentation and seeing my passion for teaching in the urban schools, they had renewed hope in their decision and sounded like they wanted to pursue this!  How great!  The inner city schools need teachers like you with hearts in the right place…

I wish all the MSU education students luck in their journey teaching and want them to know how special of a person it takes and how much dedication you show to be on the path you are on.  Always stand up, be proud, and say ” I AM a teacher!”