Mar 27 2025
Tanner Schmidt, a 2nd grade teacher at Jeffries Elementary in Springfield, Missouri, shares his inspiration for teaching. Driven by a belief that all students deserve a safe place to learn, Schmidt recalls the influence of his own elementary teacher, who supported a struggling student in need. He admired how she created a nurturing environment and aimed to do the same for his own future students.
For Schmidt, witnessing his students' growth is the most rewarding aspect of teaching. He takes pride in helping them set and achieve their personal goals, which fosters their self-confidence. He recounts a particular student from his third year of teaching who learned as much from him as he did from the student.
Schmidt acknowledges that teaching has its challenges, including high expectations and various responsibilities. However, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration among educators in Springfield Public Schools, which alleviates the feeling of isolation. Schmidt also notes that while teacher pay can be a concern, his passion for teaching stems from a desire to help students rather than financial compensation.
Schmidt wants parents to know that he is genuinely invested in their children's success. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving the best outcomes for students. Schmidt believes that any difficult conversations with parents are ultimately aimed at supporting the child's growth and success.
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