Teacher Appreciation Week was celebrated nationwide May 7 - 11. Boston Prep teachers are talented, dedicated, and incredibly hardworking, and we wanted to make sure they knew just how much we appreciate all they do! Our teachers enjoyed numerous surprises throughout the week, from new Boston Prep t-shirts to personalized water bottles to a delicious lunch. Perhaps the best surprise of all, though, came from our students. Students shared notes of gratitude to each faculty member. Below is a small sample of the heartfelt words our students shared.
To Mr. Alexandre: "Thank you for being a second father figure or older brother to me. Even though sometimes I don't live up to my potential, you always say something to encourage me. Thank you for always being in my corner."
To Ms. Tomlinson: "I appreciate the time you take out of your day even when you're busy to make sure I’m doing what I have to do and staying on track and being the student you know I should be. Even when you shouldn’t be on my side, you stand by my side and at bat for me. When I just need wise words and motivation, I know I can count on you to give that. There were times I gave up on myself, but that never stopped you from believing in me and reminding me of the goals I wanted to achieve. Thank you for believing in me and caring for me."
To Ms. Shuman: "You make learning fun and keep our class in check, even when we stray very far off topic. I know that I have not been the most positive learner, nor the most gracious student, but you never gave up on pushing me to be a better person and a better writer. For that, I say thank you."
To Mr. Benka: "Thank you for not giving up on me, even though I tried to quit over and over. You helped me grow into a champion and a better person. I may not always show it, but I appreciate that you really took the time to get a sense of who I am as a person."
To Mr. Allen: "You motivate me to do things that I've never thought I could do."
To Ms. Crowley: "As much as I'd like to admit that I've grown because of myself, the reality is it’s YOU. You have taught me so much about myself and ways to understand others’ opinions without lashing out 24/7. You have taught me how to truly listen rather than run my own mouth. Thank you for always having your door open to hear my nonstop rants, for the honest conversations, and the continuous support."
To Ms. Bernhard: "You knew that I could do it when I believed that I couldn't."
To Ms. Ferreras: "Your outrageous and contagious smile makes me happy to see you each day."
To Ms. Gaburo: "In your class I didn't just learn how to use proper grammar, but I also learned that not everyone is on the same level, so sometimes you have to reach your hand down and pull them up. I remember coming to Boston Prep and I was shy, but the first time I had your class, you made me feel as if I was special. You never gave up on me and never let me give up on myself. Your smile brightened up the whole room, and we felt welcomed and comfortable. I will always remember you for the teacher who showed me how to fix my writing, but more importantly the teacher who showed me my true potential."
To Ms. Moxness: "Thank you so much for teaching me Physics this year! You bring this awesome energy (physics pun, hope it makes you laugh a little) to the class. That energy makes it so enjoyable to be in class, and your jokes are super hilarious."
To Ms. Wright: "Every time I come in College Prep, your lesson plans remind my classmates and me that it’s not a question of if, but rather about action planning, work ethic, and using resources effectively. Every discussion we have in class makes me more confident about the college process. I could never leave this school with the thought that the staff here don’t care about my well-being. It’s impossible. Having a woman of color as my teacher for College Prep sends a signal that you went to college, you did it, and you’re killing the game. Thank you for being a reminder that my classmates and I can and will conquer."
Thank you, to all Boston Prep faculty, for all you do each day to make our mission come to life for all Boston Prep students. We are deeply grateful for all you do.