I’ve always counted myself lucky to be able to share my love of dance with the many students that I’ve been fortunate enough to work with over the past 40 or so years. Dance is fun, exciting, creative, and truly reaches the human soul. As a Dance educator, I’ve been fortunate NOT to have the issues in my classes that so often seem to plague a teacher of Academic subjects!
I think back to my early years as a fledgling teacher and how strongly I wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of the young minds and bodies entrusted to my care.
I still feel that way, today.
It is my belief that first and foremost, every educator, no matter what subject they teach, should strive to treat their students as they would want someone to treat their own child. Hence, this beautiful poem that has been hanging in our home for over 32 years:
Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement, he learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.
If a child lives with security, he learns faith.
If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
He learns to find love in the world.
(By Dorothy Law Nolte)
Wishing you Peace, Love, and Friendship,
Miss Susan