Thank You, Teachers!

It may come as a surprise to some that Franciscan Children’s has a number of teachers on-staff. You’re much more likely to pair “hospital” with “doctor,” or “nurse.” Of course, we have those wonderful professionals, too, but our teachers are an integral part of the programs and services offered here.

At Franciscan Children’s, it is part of our mission to empower our children and families to learn and thrive. We would not be able to do this if it weren’t for the teachers who dedicate themselves to our students, whether in the Kennedy Day School, the Hyman Novack Medical Day Care, the Franciscan Family Child Care Center, the Community Based Acute Treatment program or our Inpatient Mental Health program.

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, we decided to turn the tables a bit and ask our teachers the following question, “Which of your teachers has impacted you the most, and why?”

Their responses are something to be shared and celebrated…

“My senior history teacher, Mr. Shephard, enjoyed the subject and sharing it with others so much that it was contagious. Sitting in his class was the first time I thought, ‘I want to be a teacher.’” – Brock Seefeldt, LCSW, CBAT Clinical Education Coordinator

“My first grade teacher, Mrs. Karison, showed me the magic of books.” – Kate Martin, Reading Teacher, Kennedy Day School

“Mr. Hyde, my psychology teacher at Salem High School, allowed me to do volunteer work with a Music Therapist once a week in place of attending his class.  Meeting and working with Beverly Parry at the Hogan Regional State School in Danvers launched my careers as a Music Therapist.  I am ever grateful for this opportunity.” – Julie Zigo, Music Teacher, Kennedy Day School

“I would have to say my 11th grade world religion teacher. She truly cared about each of her students and would take time out of her schedule to come cheer us on in our sports games and other extra-curricular activities. It showed how much she truly supported and cared for her students.” – Amanda Shunamon, Teacher, Hyman Novack Medical Day Care

“The teacher that influenced me the most is the teacher of the [Kennedy Day School] classroom I am in, Teri Micheli, of Classroom 2.  I am truly amazed how much she knows all of her students, and how much they learn because of her.    Her dedication to them is amazing.  Because of her, I am going to school to be a teacher.  She has helped me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to go after my dream of being a teacher like her.  I hope I have her passion and drive.  She always has a smile on her face and is always happy to see her students.” – Maria Deleon, Class 2 Teaching Assistant, Kennedy Day School

To read more of their responses, please click here.

To our teachers, thank you for your dedication to our kids and the incredible work that you do. Our mission would not be possible without your commitment and compassion, and we celebrate you every day!

How would you answer the question, “Which of your teachers has impacted you the most, and why?”