Why I Teach

I believe we human beings can do better to understand, care for, and respect each other.  I study and teach literature because it is a means of presenting and contemplating self and world that feeds both head and heart: good writing (the definition of which is itself a valuable and vital discussion to have in classrooms and out) makes us think and makes us feel.  That combination has the potential to encourage growth and inspire change, positive change to make the world a better place for each and all of us.  I study film and television because we are, more and more, a media culture, and understanding how images work and how the media shapes our world and worldview is vital to challenging negative impact and enhancing resistance, again to help us create positive change in the world.  Education is a slow process, working with individuals at various stages of growth and self-awareness -- including that of the teacher.  I value my own ongoing education, which I strive to attain in various "classrooms" in my life, both formal and informal, including the classrooms in which I teach.  Education is an adventure, a journey, and a lot of work -- for all of us.  It nourishes and frustrates, builds and tears down.  I value the journey my students take with me and hope they value the the experience.

                                                                                                        -Elyce Rae Helford