Hello there! I'm Christine Hughes, a kindergarten teacher at Railroad Canyon Elementary. And I LOVE my job. I see teaching as an Olympic Flame. Once the torch is lit the flame is eternally transmitted from the educator whom inspired, to those whom aspire to be the same. With every passing torch, the light never goes out. As educators, we not only have the honor of carrying that torch, but we have the responsibility to ignite it in each and every one of our students. What a gift!
When deciding upon a career, I knew it wasn’t just about finding what was compatible with my strengths. I knew if I was going to stay committed to a job for the span of my lifetime, I would have to choose a field I absolutely LOVE. In 5th grade, my teacher ignited that flame and passed the torch to me. After observing the childlike nature of my teacher that year, I knew. Teachers get to remain forever young, forever silly, forever youthful. In essence, my greatest teachers are simply children at heart like myself. Since then, child development and gaining new learning experiences have become my passion. When I see a child, I see a malleable mind. I see little sponges eager for knowledge, purely looking for someone to shape and mold their character. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Character is higher than intellect. A great soul will be strong to live, as well as strong to think.” For this reason, I believe becoming an educator is the most valuable career one could seek.
Seeing as teaching is a privilege and an honor I highly esteem, I am proud to join the ranks of my fellow educators. Many outside the world of education have no idea of the dedication and enthusiasm it takes to produce successful, well-rounded students. Yet, the irony is most every person in this world can look back and name one teacher, formally trained or not, in their life who has impacted them in a way that has changed them forever. I want to be that teacher in the life of my students.
I believe teaching starts with love and a sense of security. I want my students to understand they are first and foremost treasured, respected, and safe. I want them to know we are born with irreplaceable gifts/talents and experiences, and that each and every one of us has something exceptional to offer. The world needs our wisdom and knowledge. I also believe teaching necessitates a vivacious and appreciative attitude about the world around us. The spark for learning is deeply innate, it merely needs to be ignited, and passed on. I only hope to trigger that spark in the next generation as I exude my love for learning to every child I encounter.
