Teachers as Positive Change Agents

Dino Manuel E. Prestado

Teacher III, Nabua National High School

It is not an exaggeration to say that a teacher can affect great change on a

student’s life. There are endless amount of stories that attest to the benefits of a strong
relationship between an educator and his/her students.

As some of the most influential role models for developing students, teachers are
responsible for more than just academic enrichment. A great educator should be able to
establish connections with his/her students, and be able to understand how they learn.
Teachers who go beyond the extra mile are committed to their students’ well-being both
inside and outside the four walls of the classroom. By forging strong relationships,
educators are able to affect virtually every aspect of their students’ lives, teaching them
the important life lessons that will help them succeed beyond written works, performance
tasks, and quarterly tests.

As the saying goes, it takes a village to educate a child but the burden of educating
young minds lie greatly on how well the teacher is committed to help effect change on a
student’s life. Whatever the student needs to help them excel, a life-changing teacher
should be there to care, nurture, and encourage students to reach their maximum
potentials in life.

A great teacher makes learning fun, stimulating, and make engaging lessons that
are pivotal to a student’s academic success. Making the classroom an exciting
environment for learning will hold the students’ fascination wherein students learn best
when they are both challenged and interested. It’s part of motivating students, which may
not be easy, but which will benefit students immeasurably in the long run. Inspiring
students is integral to ensuring their success and encouraging them to fulfill their potential.

Students who are inspired by their teachers can accomplish amazing things, and
that motivation almost always stays with them. Inspiration can also take many forms, from
helping a pupil through the academic year and their short-term goals, to guiding them
towards their future career. Teachers can also be a trusted source of advice for students
weighing important life decisions. Educators can help their pupils pursue higher
education, explore career opportunities and compete in events they might otherwise have
not thought themselves able to.

Indeed, creating a positive and productive learning environment, trust and

respect are fostered, and positive interaction is the norm are steps in building a positive
change with our students and eventually with our schools.