In Celebration

We live in a time in which it seems negativity reigns supreme everywhere you turn. Nowhere is this feeling more evident than our news and social media. Even though we may be bombarded by these negative messages, I am anchored by my profession which constantly seeks to promote positivity. Everyday, I am inspired by someone in my profession who works tirelessly to make a difference. Often these heroes ask for nothing in return. No recognition is needed as they continue their quest to make the world a better place for all, by helping to educate people of all ages and focusing on lifting voices to promote change. Their presence can be felt in local levels, in the schools and communities we work in, but also on a global scale. They work to promote their positivity without thought for reimbursement or reward. This is worth celebrating.
To all my mentors and heroes I want to say thank you. Thank you for inspiring me everyday to create a better world. To Steven Layne, you began my mission one extraordinary day in Saratoga Springs six years ago. You inspired me to make a lasting difference in my school. You showed me that one person can move mountains, especially when they inspire others along the way. I changed the way I taught and shared literature because of you and this has made all the difference.

My friends at The Educator Collaborative and Nerdy Book Club came into my life shortly after this experience. You opened my eyes and heart to new perspectives and filled my life with amazing literature. You showed me the power of a digital family. Your passion is infectious, your knowledge is vast, and your hearts are huge. Thank you for welcoming me in, expanding my thinking, and shaping my classroom practices.

John Schumaker, aka Mr. Schu, thank you for being you. It was a privilege to talk to you in person at the International Literacy Conference this year, even if I was fangirling during that moment. You have introduced me to some of my BBFs (best book friends) and for that I will be eternally grateful. You helped me create new ways to share books with my colleagues and people all of the world. You make it cool to be nerdy for books. My mantra when sharing new books is, “How would Mr. Schu do it?” Thank you for being the champion of children’s literature.

Thank you to all the professional organizations that help promote kid’s literature and hold conferences to help educators grow. From my state level New York State Reading Association conference to ILA and NCTE, your guidance in literacy matters and conferences have helped me grow professionally in unbelievable ways.

Thank you to all my colleagues at school. Your faith in me means so much. Your humor helps me through difficult times and your willingness to go the extra mile is inspiring. A special thanks to Carrie Ieda and Annette Annesi, my school partners, you always listen to my special brand of crazy and encourage me in all my endeavors. Thank you for being my guideposts and friends.

Finally, thank you to all the educators that I may never meet. Thank you for giving selflessly and creating a world that is full of a little more empathy and positivity than it had in it yesterday. Let us remember to promote what we love, share our thank yous often and find the good in everyday because even small steps in the right direction can lead to big things.