“Marching Orders”

Dear Teacher,  
 

Dressed sharply in blue uniforms and enthusiasm, the American Fork High School marching band has always been present.  To date, they have shown up for their football team for every single game.  Sidelines and center field, these band members have shown their support in a loud way, whether it be with tubas or tambourines.  Not a game nor a goal has gone by that the football players didn't feel their energetic encouragement.

So it was a role reversal, then, that the football team showed up for the band.  Having qualified for the Mt. Timpanogos Invitational, the marching band was competing.  And in the stands this time? The American Fork football team players, one by one taking seats on the bleachers, their uniforms in unison with their school music.  Amidst the chaos of the event, they were difficult to spot.  But nevertheless, they were there, applauding appreciatively, because this time, they were doing the cheering!

And you, Teacher, there in your classroom, show up every day. Dressed sharply in your love for Jesus and enthusiasm for education, you never let a lesson go by without being present.  Whether a kid sidelines you or centerfields you, you are there in a loud way, cheering for their accomplishments and rooting for their touchdowns.  Your students know that you're on their team and on their side!

And the role reversal?  Well, it may be hard to spot amongst the chaos of everything going on.  But one by one they'll show up -- whether a former student popping in to visit, a hug from a current student at church, or an affirmation during parent-teacher conferences.  Despite the difficulty, you can spot them:  Cheerleaders applauding appreciatively because this time, they are doing the cheering!

Rooting with and for you,

Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor