anything

Yes it is the inevitable "Back to School" blog. As a former teacher, I can't help but get a little nostalgic during this time and miss my old classroom terribly. The room I had with peeling paint and some unidentifiable stains on the one-time-clean carpet. I don't miss the roaches though, those things were so big even they carried book bags. It definitely wasn't the dog eating anyone's homework, it was those damn roaches eating the assignment before the dog had a chance! But even with it's worn out facade, that room was filled with magic. Nothing could impede on the imagination and creativity that came forth so strongly that it made it's way out of the classroom, down the halls, and into the real world.
My first "a-ha" moment in life came from my Kindergarten teacher. We were all sitting in the floor in a semi-circle around her, and Mrs. McCombs simply stated "You can be anything you want to be when you grow up." She was the first person who made me believe that I really could be anything I wanted to be and that it would all be possible. Educators are the fuel that light the lamp of knowledge. That symbol of education that represents the search for unyielding wisdom.
 I never took an art class, but the Art teacher at my high school had a smile and kind word for me everyday as my locker was near her classroom. I was blessed with two of the most amazing Spanish teachers anyone could ever ask for who gave me an appreciation for culture awareness. I had a middle school History teacher who gave me a passion for politics and once I make it into office (because I can be anything), I will always think of her while listening to the constituents. Along the way there have been other educators, each making their impression upon my soul, each igniting that everlasting lamp of knowledge.
 May we welcome this new school year with hope and promise for the teachers and students. May the creativity outweigh the often outdated learning environments. And may every student believe they can be anything they want to be. Thank you Mrs. McCombs.