“Come to the Edge”

Today was my last day as a Board member of the University of Hawai`i Manoa College of Education Alumni Association. I’ve officially served my maximum six years as a Board member. Two of those years were as the President. 

When I was approached to become a member of the Board. I’ll admit that I didn’t even know such an organization existed. One of my goals as President was to increase the number of our College of Education alumni who engage with our organization. Another goal was to share the many achievements of our alumni who have positively impacted the community, not just in Hawai`i, but throughout the world. 

Outgoing President Kevin Agtarap started today’s program with a heartfelt message about the positive impact of educators and the important role of the College of Education as he continues in his career. (Read his message here.) I appreciate how Kevin lifts up the College of Education as having a major impact on  his life, in forging his pathway as a young educator who is making a difference for his students, his school, and his community. And I appreciate how he lifts up the profession at a time when teachers often feel under-appreciated despite the positive impact they have on our students and their families. 

Today, we honored Dr. Joseph Ciotti, a UHM COE alumnus and an amazing educator who has inspired so many students and members of the community. (Read his interview here.)  I love this quote: “Teachers, like parents, face the demanding task of leading their students to the edge of their comfort zone and encouraging them to take a leap of faith.” Dr. Ciotti then shared this short poem:

 

For most of my life, I played it safe, choosing not to step off the edge. But as a parent and a teacher, I encouraged my sons and my students to step out of their comfort zone, and I saw their confidence grow. They showed me that I needed to do the same even if it felt uncomfortable. It’s never too late to step off the edge.

I am grateful to have had the experience of being a part of the UHM COEAA, and I am committed to continue to share about educators and education via this blog.