Arrowhead High School teacher Mrs. Jennifer Passler is one of the people being celebrated during the first week of May for Teacher Appreciation week. The week, which has origins dating back to 1953, is used to celebrate educators for their important contributions to society. We chose to interview Mrs. Passler about her career as a teacher.
Mrs. Passler began to consider teaching as a profession when a professor she had in her first year of college caused her to think more deeply about literature. “I really enjoyed pondering the motivations and perspectives of the characters in the stories and then applying that knowledge to everyday experiences,” Passler said.
Despite the challenges that come with teaching, Passler expressed appreciation for a lot about the job. “There is a present-moment commitment that is needed to interact with so, so many different people each day. I have to get out of my head if I’m worried or sad about something when the bell rings and a group of students comes into the classroom. I’m not saying to bury your feelings, but having that drink from the firehose of humanity can sometimes be just what is needed to refresh,” she stated.
She also talked about the benefits of teaching high school students specifically, saying “Teenagers are sort of adults and sort of kids — I think they have the best parts of each. They share mature, thoughtful insights…about life and, of course, literature. They are also more spontaneous than many adults I know. This spontaneity often leads to goofiness…and I like that.”
Passler spoke about the personal growth that comes with being a teacher as well, how it makes someone more compassionate and flexible, “I’ve spent over 30 years feeling supported by people who innately know how to encourage and celebrate. That is quite a gift!” Passler said.
Mrs. Passler has decided to retire once this year is over and it is without a doubt that she has inspired many students to live their best life and follow their dreams just as she has. As her students, we appreciate the education she has given us and we will miss her as she moves on from Arrowhead High School.
