Words by Smiley Team
The challenges that teachers have faced over the last two years have caused them to go above and beyond in their role as educators. Teacher burnout is at an all-time high, yet, these heroes go back to mold the minds of our future generation.
Due to a lack of resources in many schools, teachers have had to add to their to-do list. Every student at one Arizona school, St. Matthew Catholic School, is eligible for free or reduced lunches. This means that roughly 130 children rely on the school for two meals a day and in certain circumstances, healthcare, and, of course, an education.
What St. Matthew lacks in financial resources, it makes up for in dedication to provide chances for marginalized students.
Teachers are taking on roles as a school bus driver, the school nurse, a physical education teacher, coaches for sports teams, and taking charge of the student council.
Fifth-grade teacher, Mike Bradley, told ABC15 News. "Everybody pitches in to help where there are needs.”
[Read more: 'Inspirational teachers have a lasting impact']
For many students, school is the only refuge they have. The pandemic forced shuttle and bussing services to halt, causing many students to miss school. Being without these resources can be detrimental to their mental and physical wellbeing. Teachers understood that to help their students, they needed to step in and help.
At St. Matthew, there are 10 teachers, all of whom have extra jobs that go beyond their expertise.
Covid testing is also done twice a week and every student is assessed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, by the principal, who is also the nurse. The swabs are pooled at the grade level, and if any come back positive, the children are subjected to a quick test.
It’s a time-consuming yet necessary procedure for someone who had to be trained on the spot.
To "go above and beyond the call of duty" implies performing far more than is necessary or expected of you in your employment. When broken down, "go above and beyond" is to do more. "The call of duty" refers to "the things that you are required to accomplish as part of your work".
The administrators and teachers at St. Matthew have proven that their role in the school system is more than a job, it’s their calling.
Find out more about St. Matthew Catholic School and ways you can donate to help them further support their pupils.
