Teachers come a dime a dozen. However, that does not necessarily mean that all of them are skilled, therefore the ones with the aptitude for educating students should be applauded and perhaps even rewarded.
When it comes to recognizing teachers in Tallahassee, Superintendent Jackie Pons is unquestionably the man for the job.
Pons awarded Emily Barbacci, a teacher at Lawton Chiles High School, the district’s teacher of the year. According to the Tallahassee Democrat, Barbacci was among five finalists – Stephen Veliz of Swift Creek Middle School, Betsy Fisher of Leon High School, Sally Freehrer of Oak Ridge Elementary School and Susan Harris of Cobb Middle School.
Pons and some of the school board staff surprised Barbacci with the award on Monday afternoon.
When it comes to teaching, it is certainly underrated. Along with the responsibility of educating students, being a teacher can also mean settling for a job that doesn’t pay quite as much.
Teaching is definitely not for the faint of heart. It takes smarts and determination to become an educator. It is by far, not an easy task.
Teachers can inspire students to achieve more and push them to reach for the stars.
Students that are blessed with great teachers, usually find themselves motivated to excel. It is definitely a job that demands patience, tolerance and persistence.
Hardworking teachers deserve awards for their efforts and Barbacci is no exception. Her work ethic and fortitude have definitely paid off. She deserves the accolade as well as other teachers who do their part to educate and challenge their students.
Jay Christie for the Editorial Board.