Here’s to our mentors, guides and heroes

A year ago, the AFT launched our Real Solutions for Kids and Communities campaign to help children bounce back and thrive after the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and to combat the harmful culture war attacks on public education. Over the past year, the campaign has taken us to more than 20 states, where we've witnessed the power of experiential learning firsthand.

One such program was recognized during the afternoon general session at the AFT's convention on July 24. Two students from Roosevelt High School - Early College Studies in Yonkers, N.Y., praised "Take a Look at Teaching/Grow Your Own," a program sponsored by the Yonkers Federation of Teachers.

The program seeks to increase diversity in the profession while also addressing the teacher shortage by encouraging students to explore a career in teaching. Students also gain hands-on teaching experience and learn the characteristics of great teachers and successful schools, as well as the obstacles teachers confront.

"Through this program, I learned to appreciate what teachers like some of you do every day. It taught me how hard teaching can be," said Keisilianny "Keisi" Genao, a rising junior at Roosevelt. "We were also taught that teaching is a profession fueled by passion, dedication and the belief in the transformative power of education."

Taking "a look at teaching gave me the opportunity to experience something new and gave me the chance to be a leader," said Brisea Dida, a rising senior at Roosevelt.

Keisi and Brisea took a moment to thank the delegates for their dedication and commitment to inspiring and challenging students. "Here's to you, our mentors, our guides and our heroes," said Keisi.

[Adrienne Coles/photo by Russ Curtis]