Celebrating People at the Heart of Education

In 2018, we launched Teacher Stories to share inspiring stories about teachers and the profound impact they have on their students and communities. Too often, these stories fade into the background of our public consciousness, causing many of us to take for granted the critical role these dedicated individuals play. Nearly everyone has a story about a teacher who made a significant difference in their lives.

Our growing collection of stories serves as a reminder that good teaching matters—especially at a time when our country is striving to affirm its commitment to basic democratic ideals, which cannot be achieved if all children do not have access to thoughtful, well-prepared, and well-supported teachers.

SPECIAL STORY THEMES

  • Surprise Appreciations – In these highly moving video episodes, students surprise their teachers with words of appreciation.

  • What Can Schools Do To Help Save Our Democracy? – Eight audio and video episodes produced in 2021 with a variety of guests, including authors, teacher educators, teachers, school administrators, parents, students, and policymakers.

  • Teaching During the Pandemic – Teachers and students describe the challenges as well as some unexpected benefits of teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Teaching about Race and Racism – Teachers, professors, students, and education policymakers share their experiences and perspectives.

THE TEACHER APPRECIATION PROJECT

In 2021, we launched The Teacher Appreciation Project so that students and parents could publicly thank teachers for their impact on people’s lives. Consider adding your own appreciations for teachers who have made a difference in your life or, perhaps, relatives or friends. Take a look and see what people are saying about their teachers.

We also provide a free Implementation Guide for schools that want to conduct teacher appreciation campaigns in their schools.

If you enjoy these stories, please share them with your friends and colleagues. If you have a teacher story that you’d like us to consider for a podcast episode, click here to tell us about it. And, if you want to submit a written appreciation for a teacher you can do it here.

Our Mission, Vision, and Commitment to Diversity

Misson

Our mission is to celebrate and honor teachers by sharing their inspiring stories, showcasing their positive impact on their students and communities, and fostering a greater appreciation for the vital role they play in shaping our society.

Vision

We envision a world where the contributions of teachers are universally recognized and valued, where every educator feels supported and appreciated, and where the stories of their dedication and success inspire others to pursue and support the noble profession of teaching.

Diversity

We are committed to fostering inclusive school environments that respect and value differences in race, ethnicity, gender, age, abilities, and political perspectives. We strive to create a platform that promotes empathy and curiosity, where every individual feels seen, heard, and empowered to contribute to the collective conversation about the future of education.

Fiscal Sponsor

A field of interest fund for Courageous Conversations about our Schools is maintained by the El Dorado Community Foundation, 501(c)3 # 68-0255556.