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Every teacher has an impact on the students that come through their doors each morning, and for most students that impact extends far beyond the classroom.

Teachers are a special breed. Not all of us have the patience or energy to not only manage the learning rate of 20 – 30 young people at one time, but also the inevitable fluctuations in behaviour and emotions. “School hours” rarely apply these days either, with so many teachers preparing, marking, or responding to students long after the school gates close.

In her TedX talk “Every kid needs a champion” Educator and Motivational speaker Rita Pierson talks about the importance and power of human connection between a teacher and student, adding “Is this job tough?, you betchya, but it’s not impossible. We’re educators and we are born to make a difference”.

Few of us remember how to play the recorder, or do long division, but many of us are quick to remember teachers who made an indelible impression, for reasons unrelated to the subject they taught.

We asked 4 COS employees about teachers who have impacted their life. Each of them responded spontaneously, volunteering the teachers name and how they had impacted them, with barely a hesitation.

Kate from marketing immediately nominated “Mr Aroney my year 3 teacher from Newport Public School”. Kate says she was a “talkative” child (an asset in her adulthood) and fondly remembers Mr Aroney for the kind way he disciplined her when she was talking too much in class. “He was very careful not to shame or embarrass me. I was grateful for that, even at a young age”.

COS graphic designer Eman grew up in Lebanon. She recalls an engaging Philosophy teacher who was addressed by his first name, “Waleed”. Eman says she remembers him for the energy and character he brought to class which made learning so enjoyable.

“His 2 hour classes would fly and they never felt boring. When we provided particularly insightful answers, he would say he was adding their contribution to his book, which he would print to share with students the following year. He made you feel that your ideas were valued and this was empowering”, says Eman.

Daniel from our category team says, “My grade 6 teacher Miss Boyd left a lasting impression on me due to her cheeky nature. She once gave me an award for managing to keep quiet for a whole hour during a school hushathon! Around 10 years ago we reconnected through Facebook and then eventually caught up in person. We really clicked as adults and have remained friends since, going to movies, plays and concerts. We even recently went on a TV game show together!”.

I’m Facebook friends with my Year 8 Geography teacher Mrs Diazock, says Taryn. “She was and remains a beautiful soul, who took me under her wing and was a mentor. She endured a serious illness while we were at school and inspired me with her grace and strength in the face of her illness”.

If we were to have asked all 520 employees at COS, we’re confident we would have 520 such stories to share. So teachers of Australia take this as a reminder on your tough days, that you are not only appreciated, but your positive impact is enduring.

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