Surprised, humbled and proud: catching up with Mr Gray
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 127 No 1, 11 February 2022, page no.12
During last year’s State Education Week, the QTU launched the “Thank a Teacher” initiative, a week-long campaign during which members shared which teacher had made a difference in their life.
In the October Journal, I wrote of the profound impact that my upper primary school teacher at Crescent Lagoon State School, John Gray, had on my own educational journey. So much so, that when it came to choosing a career pathway, it was clear that teaching was where I would make the most difference.
Crescent Lagoon State School, where Mr Gray not only taught me but also my two brothers, was a haven for me. Being in his classroom through years 4, 5 and 6 instilled in me a love for learning, one that I took with me into my own classrooms.
Through the “Cresso” connection, Mr Gray (who was in hospital at the time)was shown my article by a family member. Both reached out to me, and I jumped at the chance to catch up. While in Rockhampton over the December holidays, I was lucky enough to meet up with Mr Gray after nearly 35 years. He admitted to being surprised by the article, humbled, but mostly proud that he had been able to make such a difference in one of his students’ lives.
It was emotional seeing Mr Gray after all these years. Hearing a teacher say they’re proud of you and your achievements is something that stays with you for a long time. Becoming Vice-President of the QTU has been one of my proudest achievements, and after speaking about union issues with Mr Gray, he revealed that he had been a proud QTU Representative for many years. We spoke about many topics, but mostly how much education has changed over the years. At the end of our catch-up, I couldn’t wipe the smile from my face! Recognising the work teachers do and having an opportunity to thank those who have made an impact on your life is so important and brings about so much joy.
Thank a teacher
Recognising the great work teachers and school leaders do within our schools is vital. You don’t realise how much you may influence a student’s pathway and may never know the true impact you can have on a student’s life. Meeting up with Mr Gray reminded me of why I became a teacher, something that as you go about your day-to-day tasks can easily be forgotten.
Teachers make a difference every day. Which is why the QTU’s “Thank a teacher” initiative is a perfect opportunity to tell those teachers that they have indeed made a difference. Watch this space for how you can be involved in our 2022 “Thank a Teacher” initiative.
On that note, I would like to pay tribute each and every one of you, for your hard work and dedication in starting the school year and wish you all the best for 2022.