Here at the White House, we just love teachers. Each of us had a special teacher that changed our lives and went the extra mile just to see the spark within us grow ablaze.
Throughout my life I’ve been blessed with so many amazing ones that shaped my life in some indelible way. There was Mr. Paulson the elementary school music teacher that encouraged me to join the school choir, Mrs. Staley in 6th grade who thought I would have fun running for student council president (I won!), Mr. Rossi in junior high that helped me discover a love for American history and our Constitution, and my high school English teacher Ms. Adams who reminds me to this day that I can do anything as long as I put my mind to it (though maybe the window for me to play big league shortstop has closed. Maybe.) In short, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them and I am forever grateful to all the teachers that put our children, our future first.
This week’s HelloGiggles profile features a teacher who puts her students first. Ninive Calegari started one of the most innovative organizations in education today and did so with teachers in mind. To quote the story, “Ninive is a powerful force that you can feel walk into a room; a person who you know won’t take your excuses, but would just the same wrap her arm around you and listen to your life story. She is intimidating, and inspiring, refreshing and passionate.”
Sound like anyone you know? Me too.
You can read all about Ninive and her awesome work here and be sure to check back next week for the next edition of “Women Working to Do Good” other blogs featured on the Young Americans page.