Former Student members share their triumphs—and their trials—in the classroom.

A Little Help From Friends

Although my first year of teaching wasn't unbearable, there were moments I doubted my chosen profession. One such moment involved a student in my special education class. One day he was unable to behave and was disturbing his peers, so I escorted him back to his homeroom. On the way, he shoulder blocked another student then turned and punched me in the face. I had to use my full size and strength to subdue him.

All of my training couldn't prepare me for an event like this. Looking back, the only way I got through it was by turning to my fellow first-year teachers and Association members for help. The tough times I faced made me appreciate the bonds I had with other Student Program members.

Working with the Association helped me develop a network of supportive friends. Now, in my second year of teaching, I still have some trying moments. But, I know I can survive with help from my fellow teachers.

Troi Orias
Special Education Resource Teacher, Honolulu, Hawaii

No Way Out

My first teaching experience was in a self-contained, special education classroom. My six students had a variety of disabilities and some days I felt like I had no control over the students. And then it happened.

One day, one of my students went to the door and it wouldn't open. I called until another teacher came by and, after some probing, we decided the door needed to come off the hinges—a task for a district maintenance worker. It would be about two hours before he could arrive.

I explained the situation to my students and considered my options. I could give in to panic at being locked in a room with students with unpredictable behavior, or I could carry on as usual with the lessons. I chose the lessons. Two hours later, the door came off and the crowd outside witnessed our class deep at work. I now teach second grade and I still try to remain low key in stressful situations. And I never close my classroom door.

Teresa Richardson
Second-Grade Teacher, Elon, North Carolina

Building Your Voice

I attended a small university with a Student organization of only about 30 members. My participation in this small group has impacted my career in a big way. When I entered the teaching profession four years ago, I was anxious to join the local Association. Since then, I have worked on various committees, attended the state Representative Assembly and even the NEA RA. These ongoing opportunities enhance my leadership skills and keep me abreast of trends and issues in our profession. Plus, I love knowing that I have a voice in my profession.

As busy educators we often say that we don't have the time to be active in our professional organization. My philosophy is, "Why not work with the organization that works for you?" I encourage educators of all experience levels to get involved and make a difference. It is never too late when our children and profession are at stake.

Rochelle Douglas
Assistant Principal, Collierville, Tennessee

It's All Political

Being a part of the NEA Student Program helped me fully understand the political aspects of public education. I never realized that everything I do in the classroom is related directly to politics.

While I served as state president of the Texas Student Program I participated in countless trainings on political involvement that became extremely useful last spring when the Texas legislature tried very hard to damage public education. Thanks to the e-mail alerts I received from my Association, I could share information about proposed legislation with other teachers and we could strategize about ways to fight bad bills. Membership in my building tripled because of the great training I could share with my colleagues.

Being a part of the NEA Student Program will prepare you for all aspects of teaching. So, I encourage you to attend as many conferences as you can and take advantage of the numerous resources you'll find.

Clinton Gill
Fifth-Grade teacher, Lubbock, Texas

Becoming Tomorrow's Leaders

Through the NEA Student Program, I learned that I represent the future of the organization. So, when I became an active member, I made member recruitment a priority. I worked hard in my building, making the rounds and recruiting members. And, in my second year, I became president of my local Association. Although it was challenging representing veteran teachers, they appreciated my energy and commitment.

The NEA Student Program truly prepares tomorrow's leaders. New teachers bring new ideas, innovative means to accomplishing tasks, and energy—lots of energy. I encourage students to get involved early with the Association. The NEA needs a new generation of leaders who are prepared to take on the challenges that public education faces. Be willing to use all of the skills that the NEA Student Program has provided because tomorrow's teachers are tomorrow's leaders.

Raphael Waldrop
High School Drama Teacher, Hattiesburg, Mississippi

The Joys of Teaching

Teaching is more enjoyable than I ever imagined possible. It is so rewarding to know that I make a difference in the lives of my students. Public education is one of the greatest gifts we offer to children in America, and, as a public school teacher, I get to offer that gift to my students every day.

Through my experiences in the NEA Student Program, I learned about the importance of supporting public education. I learned how to take on leadership roles and now, as an active NEA member, serve on several

educational committees at the local and state levels where we work on improving aspects of our educational system.

Through the Student Program I learned that, as a teacher, I set the tone in my classroom. So I strive every day to make my classroom a stimulating learning environment and a warm, welcoming place for my students. I want each of my students to look forward to coming to school every morning.

Jennifer Lecy
High School Special Education Teacher, St. Cloud, Minnesota