WHY A TEACHER HAS TO BE A ROLE MODEL

“A teacher affects eternity. She cannot tell where her influence stops.” This statement hit me hard when I decided to become an educationist. There were thousands of students in the school who had to be guided.  I was not a perfect role model. I had to get my actions right first in all aspects. How disciplined was I? I had to take stock of my value system. What are the positive qualities that I possessed? Could I lead them by example? Many more such pertinent questions crossed my mind. I reflected on each one of them. Where was I, and where should I be. I decided that I will work on each of these and make myself worthy of the chair I occupied.

 It was not an easy task, but, nevertheless, I was clear on bringing about a transformation of which I would be proud and also would be able to lead others by example. Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear. As educationists we have this humongous responsibility to be a role model to the younger generation. As Dr. APJ Kalam said, “My life will me my message to my students.” Be it our value system, or the discipline with which we live our life, our behavior, the language we use, the tone of our voice, everything has a message for our students. It is as important as preparing for the class or delivering the concept or updating our knowledge.

 As teachers we should always remember that we are not only imparting knowledge to the students, but also moulding them to be responsible citizens, compassionate human beings, disciplined individuals, who are the future of our nation. We are also mentors in that sense. If a teacher sees herself as a nation builder, it will broaden her perspective of who a teacher is.

 Teaching is a calling. A teacher has the power to influence her students. She wields a powerful tool. She can earn the respect of her students by the way she carries herself. She should not only be an inspiring teacher, but also a person who is worthy of emulation. A teacher has to be mindful of her conduct and character. “An ounce of practice is worth tons of preaching.”  A teacher shapes the destiny of a nation. Let us become one such teacher and touch lives and make a difference! 

 #Thoughtfulthursdays #nsn #nsnschool #mentoring #parenting