Being a Teacher is my Superpower | Show Your Support with Teacher Appreciation Week
I have been an elementary school teacher since 2006. For almost twenty years, I have had an elementary classroom buzzing with energy, giggles filling the air, and curious eyes eager to explore. As I guide my little learners through the wonders of education, I’m constantly reminded of the magic found in everyday moments. It’s these simple yet profound experiences that inspire my photography journey every day. They also definitely inspire my journey through motherhood, too. Sometimes I forget that being a teacher is my superpower and it informs and inspires so much of what I do as a a business owner and photographer.
Sara Gillis just did a podcast episode on how traits of being a teacher coincide with being a business owner. It was such a great reminder, so I thought I would share 5 of my favorite teacher superpowers and how they impact my Maryland family photography business!
Patience
I mean… this is a given! Being an elementary school teacher requires energy and patience. You have little ones vying for your attention, needing your support and your love. Most of it, they need your time and patience so they can learn at their pace and explore their thoughts with support! This definitely is part of my photography business. I’ll never rush your family or your little ones. Meeting someone new can be a big change and I want everyone to feel comfortable with me! Plus, I can be patient if someone is struggling to cooperate. It won’t bother me at all!
Flexibility
As a teacher, business owner, and mom, going with the flow without breaking a sweat matters. If a prompt or an activity doesn’t work during a session, I can quickly think on my feet and shift gears. I’m not going to make anyone stick out something that isn’t working. What’s the point!? I want your session to be enjoyable and being flexible is key!
Accommodating and supporting children
Not one child is alike. Just as I want every child to be successful in learning, I want every child to feel good about themselves during a photo session. Being a CapABLE Photographer along with being a classroom teacher has given me skills to work with all kinds of children. So no matter what your family brings to our session, I’m excited to meet and work with you! Plus – there’s no reason to be worried or embarrassed. I’ve seen it all! Kids are unique and special – I want to celebrate that.
Building relationships
As soon as I go into homes, I get down to the level of the child and get to know them. For adult clients, my light-hearted nature helps you feel comfortable. As I’ve said before, being comfortable and relaxed is the key to natural photos that you’ll love! I genuinely want to know your family – as people – but also so I can create meaningful images for you!
Leadership
Over the years, I’ve come to wear a LOT of hats as a classroom teacher. From team leader, e-coach, mentor teacher, science leader, and rainbow representative, I love helping my community. This definitely leads into business leadership – having a vision and drive to get things done.
Teacher Appreciation Week 2024
Every year, during the first week of May, schools celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. I thought it might be fun to share a few of my favorite gifts to inspire you! Of course, not all teachers are the same and you’ll know your child’s teacher best. But, here’s a few gifts that we always love!!
- Hand written note. I want to frame each and every hand written note of appreciation. It truly means so much. These notes can get us through the tough last weeks of school and help us know we have made a difference.
- Food. Treat your child’s teacher to breakfast or lunch. Bonus points if you tag team a few parents and buy the entire team lunch! Food is always appreciated!
- Gift Cards. No shame here! Some schools have limits to how much the teacher can accept. Sometimes there is a loophole where parents combine forces and pitch in towards a larger gift card amount, but just check that out if your county is like that.
- Personalized Items. Some teachers love this and some could care less. I love custom stationary, sticky notes, and signs. That is just me! Your child’s teacher may prefer to just get generic supplies for the room. Ask – we’re happy to answer!
- Local Gifts. I love when my families send in a local gift from some of my favorite Maryand shops and creatives! I personally love EC Letters and Loud Beads! Both are on Etsy and have super cute ideas!
Teachers are a special bunch. They’re some of my favorite people and every day I get to do all of my jobs, I feel incredibly lucky. I know that all of my jobs and worlds have made me the teacher, photographer, and person that I am. I appreciate all of my students and love being able to be a part of both of these worlds!
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Christina did an amazing job with our family photos. From the first time we spoke--she was incredibly thoughtful, organized and detail oriented to ensure the session would be a success.. – Katie A.
