While people are busy bashing teachers and trying to take away the few benefits we worked hard for in exchange for paltry salaries, I thought I'd think back on some of the things we do for our kids (either I have done this or good friends have):

• contribute money to help a student's family
• contribute food and/or clothing
• buy food/clothing for a student
• attend a former student's wake or funeral (because they never stop being our kids, even after they graduate)
• attend the wake or funeral of a former student's family (see above)
• go to the performance of a student (or a kid you just happen to have gotten to know) when the performance is not school connected
• give advice to former students (career, college, resume, etc.)

While I am so happy the school year is coming to an end (for the first time ever), I don't stop caring.   And that matters.  

A California judge just made a ruling that could unlock the revolving door of teacher positions.  See if those quick hires (and fires) will care this much about your children when they can't stick around long enough to get to know them.  Because many years down the road, we all still care about our students.  And we aren't paid to, we just do.