Teacher’s Pet
By Peter Barnes

Teachers aren't supposed to have favorite students, but we all do. Come on, admit it. Thinking back over your teaching career, aren't there a handful of students you remember a little more fondly than the others? There is nothing wrong with this, as long as we treat all students equally in the classroom. What makes a favorite? Favorites aren't always the hardest workers or the ones who never break the rules. Consider four of my favorites, for example.

Ivory was a serious, reticent eight-year-old who often seemed to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders. Her mother struggled with alcohol and Ivory knew much more about the adult world than any eight-year-old should. A natural leader, she had a quiet dignity that other students found a bit intimidating. I'll always remember how she could quiet the boys at her table with just one withering glare. Ivory's refusal to be defeated by the sorrows of her home life made her one of my favorites.

Harold, with his round face, hundreds of freckles and toothy grin, reminded me of a character from the "L'il Rascals." His grandmother said his spiky, orange hair made him look like a porcupine. Uncoordinated on the soccer field and struggling academically, Harold still had a genuine joy for life. A popular student, he was a favorite of mine because he never failed to make me smile.

Reiko came to my classroom from Korea knowing only a handful of English words. I mispronounced her name for a month before she found the courage to correct me. Reiko worked tirelessly with my lowest-ability readers and by Christmas was reading on grade level. Her Christmas card, though not perfect, demonstrated her tremendous growth. It read, "Mr. Barnes, I thanks you for teach me so much of the English word." I will always remember her incredible commitment to learning.

Thomas was the classic gifted student. His knowledge of topics like the Civil War and the Periodic Table of Elements was amazing. I knew when he raised his hand in science class I could expect a question like, "Mr. Barnes, how many atoms does it take to start a nuclear reaction?"

Despite his high abilities, Thomas was a humble, helpful student. He is one my favorites because he forced me to learn more in order to keep up with him.

Students inspire us, teach us, and make us laugh everyday. But some offer even more. They are role models for traits we can use ourselves.

Peter Barnes teaches fifth grade in New Albany, OH.

February, 2005, Vol.35, No.5