Skip to navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Digital Promise

Search

Menu

Close

Blog

Core Content

4 Ways Teachers Inspire Digital Promise Staff

Ruth Cosse-Wells

Share

What comes to mind when you think about the impact of your favorite teacher? Mr. H, my eighth grade math teacher, was not only attentive to my academic goals but also to my well-being while I navigated racial dynamics as one of the few Black students at my school. This week, we’re showing appreciation for teachers who dedicate their time, talent and effort to uplifting and supporting learners. At Digital Promise, educators inspire us to take on big challenges in education.

In recognition of Teacher Appreciation Week and our gratitude for teachers, Digital Promise staff shared personal stories of impactful educators.

"Selby Doughty taught me the importance of context—that every work of art, invention, and movement, is informed by circumstances. Consider the context.”  
“Shantel Tharps, a 20+ year veteran science teacher, by far, had the greatest impact on my life. She truly made sure to care about students as human beings and treated each and every one like family. You grew to love her and science—I think about her often.”  
“Elizabeth Grove, from Northwest Classen High School was my AP English teacher and so much more. Her room was a safe space to land, a place of free thinking and kindness. She continues to be a light in my life!”
“My sixth grade teacher Mr. Hanks had a positive lifelong impact in my life. He believed in my abilities, saw my potential, and reinforced my self-esteem in the classroom when I was beginning to fall through the cracks of a broken school system in the city of Los Angeles during the early 90's. Being a first-generation daughter of immigrants, I had no idea that scholarships and grants existed for students like me. Mr. Hanks made it possible for me to join an academic enrichment program at USC which helped me excel in the most challenging courses that best prepared me for college. Thanks to Mr. Hanks, I pursued a career in education.”

Follow @DigitalPromise on Twitter to continue the conversation this Teacher Appreciation Week and beyond. We want to hear about the teachers who have made a difference in your lives.

Authors

Ruth Cosse-Wells

Digital Marketing Manager