Mrs.Bates

By Tracy Schruder

My most influential teacher was my grade five teacher, Mrs. Doreen Bates. She was an exceptional educator with impeccable coping skills. At ten years old, I was full of energy and confidence, but also bold and lazy. None of my previous teachers had much success in motivating me to reach my potential. I struggled to read and often failed to complete projects on time. I’m not sure how I managed to pass each grade, but I was pushed along and found myself in Mrs. Bates’ grade five class, facing the toughest teacher in the school.

However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that she wasn’t tough in a mean-spirited way; instead, she was lovingly tough. For the first time in my life, I felt inspired to apply myself and learn. Mrs. Bates was patient with me, teaching me how to read and comprehend what I was reading. I developed a love for books. She also taught me to write in cursive, journal my feelings and thoughts, and better manage my emotions. Her penmanship was impeccable and as a result, mine became impeccable as well.

Moreover, Mrs. Bates taught me math, and I became the only student in the class to achieve perfect test grades. She transformed me from a disliked bully into a responsible, respected student. I formed new friendships, and by the end of the year, I was a different person. My mindset and behavior had undergone a significant change. I left her class with a passion for writing, art, and a newfound love for myself.

Thank you for reading 😊🙏