Aimee,

Hi! I know you weren’t directing your post at me, but I had to reply. This is just too strange! My middle school math teacher (who happened to be female) also called me apathetic. Just like you, I had no idea what that meant. I went home and asked my mom. When she told me I was devastated! I wasn’t a lazy student, but I did not get math, at least the way this teacher taught it. Coincidentally, I did very well in math through high school and college. I had looked up to this teacher, and thought I would be just like her when I grew up. I felt very betrayed by her comment.

To this day I still thank her. She motivated me to become a middle school teacher myself. I thought if I could intentionally make kids feel welcome, cared for, and smart, maybe, just maybe, I could help to make-up for all the teachers who can’t or won’t do this. Although certainly not intended, she made me a better person. I hope I can positively influence as many kids as she had a negative affect upon. Just had to share!

God Bless,

Katrina