Gail and I were recently in Red Deer, Alberta where we met these two darling teachers, both just beginning their careers.

They were interested to know how they might organize their Math Daily 3 materials in their oh-so-small classrooms. I discovered that not only are they in small classrooms, but that one room is so space limited that only 14 children can fit at one time. The other is teaching in one half of the library.

What amazed me wasn't the less-than-ideal teaching space; it was their attitudes. Their questions didn't come from a place of complaining about conditions; instead they were all about problem solving to best meet their students' needs. I was also impressed that they couldn't quit talking about their wonderful staff and mentors. I am quite certain that those who work with them have modeled it for them. 

As our day came to a close, I felt a tug at my heart when leaving these two amazing young women. They epitomize the kind of teachers we want in schools: energetic, reflective thinkers and problem solvers. It is clear that they themselves have had wonderful teachers and mentors who have invested their time to support them and help them grow. Yes, they are green, but their students are lucky to be able to call them teacher.

Meeting these two was a powerful trip wire, reminding me of the importance of supporting and mentoring our new teachers. Those new to our beloved career are worth the investment of time for the students they currently teach and the hundreds they will influence over the course of their careers. It is a legacy that reaches beyond our own personal effect on students. 

So to all of you who take the time to offer support, guidance, mentoring or even a shoulder to cry on, thank you. Your investment will pay off for many years to come.

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