To the editor:

I have read many derogatory and insensitive letters to the editor about teachers over the years, but none quite so blatantly ignorant of the truth as Mr. Wendl’s letter of May 31.

Mr. Wendl, you obviously do not know many teachers. I have been a teacher for 28 years and continue to be very proud of my profession and colleagues. Most of us routinely work 10- to 12-hour days in and out of the classroom.

This includes attending conferences, meetings and communicating with parents of our students, not to mention the hours of planning required to be effective in the classroom. In case you are not aware, teaching is not a job you can “leave at the office.”

Allow me to educate you on a typical teacher’s summer. He or she has at least a part-time job, sometimes earning minimum wage, to make up for their salary and all the expenses they incurred as a result of buying things for the classroom out of their own pockets.

In his or her free time, they are attending classes, workshops, conferences or seminars in order to keep abreast of current best practices. The cost of this professional development may or may not be reimbursable, but conscientious teachers know it is a necessity to do the best job possible at educating your children and the next generation of leaders.

So, instead of me thanking responsible homeowners, I would prefer they thank me for losing sleep over the problems of their children, for going above and beyond to consistently put the education of their children at the top of my priority list and for walking into a classroom each day knowing I make a difference in the lives of children.

Thank you, I will enjoy my summer “vacation” because it allows me to get re-charged, inspired and prepared for the next school year.

I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Lynn Crecelius

Oakville