Most teachers become teachers to inspire young minds, the minds of the future that they will create, not only for future adults but also for adults right now.

The influence of teachers on students is a huge part of people’s lives. When adults think of their childhood, they will always remember the teachers who inspired them as a person or inspired them to simply show up to class!

According to Coronado Social Worker, Alexis Vogelin, two things truly contribute to how teachers inspire their students: “Understanding that each student is a whole person with different and unique learning needs, showing up the way they expect their students to show up… [and] Relationships with their students help the way they learn and build relationships before requesting things from those children and acknowledging the needs of those children.” These many contributions that go into how different teachers influence different students are vitally important to how the students may or may not be inspired.

According to an independent non-profit organization, The Child Mind Institute, when students don’t feel inspired, they will undergo a plethora of issues, including reduced engagement, chronic absenteeism, and potential mental health issues. Coronado Counselor Nathan Holm says that it is important to “Be there and genuinely listen, when teachers know what students, aspirations are and help them get there and treat them seriously… Teachers who are motivated, motivate them. Less engaged teachers have less people in their classes, heavy influences, and student bias.”

At the end of the day, students who have grown and are still learning can agree that the most inspiring teachers are those who are motivated and who genuinely care about their students’ lives, goals, and aspirations. The way educators show up matters; leading with honesty, kindness, and authenticity makes all the difference.