Both Matt and I wore purple today in support of Spirit Day.
My day was quite an experience. Yesterday I had mass emailed our school encouraged them to wear purple for Spirit Day. I honestly had no idea what the response would be as it was kind of late in the day when I sent it. I was pleasantly surprised when a good number of my co-workers were wearing purple, including our principal. :-)
During each of my classes I explained why I, along with other teachers, were wearing purple. This also gave me a chance to share a bit of why Spirit Day was personally important to me. While I wasn't a kid who was bullied because I was gay, it still hurt to hear the words "fag" and "queer" used in a derogatory manner.
I emphasized that I want our school to be a safe place for ALL students. I truly felt like I connected with the kids and they got to know a part of me that they may not have known.
All in all, it was a good day.
You are a wonderful example of what a teacher should be. Though I wore purple today, I did not discuss the reason. I wish that I could be open enough to do so. Thank you for being an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteI second that, very inspiring.
ReplyDeleteBTW - such a cute couple. ;-)
and such a handsome couple! I too wore a purple shirt; bullied myself as a young person, not for being gay but just for being different. bullying of ANY kind sux. :(
ReplyDeleteWhat were your student's reactions to your story? Some laughs? Seriousness? Supportive?
ReplyDeleteLove that, and love that the principal went purple, too.
ReplyDeleteGreat story!
Pretty darn awesome. If I stilled worked in a school, I hope I'd have the courage to do that!
ReplyDeletePeace <3
Jay