While many in our culture call our athletes, actors and singers heroes, there are real heroes making a difference in the lives of the next generation of leaders. One such hero is a teacher who lovingly labors in the Oakland school system. Her name is Ms. Dixon. Although she stands at about 5’5” inches tall, she is a giant in the lives of many of her students. She is energetic, soulful and speaks with confidence and authority.
Recently, before speaking to a group of her students, I told her she was my hero. (This caught her off guard, probably because many teachers are not treated or thought of as heroes.) She possesses a commitment to her students that drives her to help each and every one of them realize their potential.
Hundreds of students have come through her classroom and many have gone on to higher education. Sure, there are those who have not taken advantage of her instruction and her compassion and have gotten lost in life. However, this does not deter her or quench her spirit!
She continues to lead and positively impact the lives of her students. She shows them that there is hope for a better life if you are disciplined and determined.
This year she received one of the greatest gifts a teacher can receive; one of her students is now attending a prestigious California university. Some might say that is no big deal, but if you knew the hurdles and barriers that the students have to overcome, you would realize that it is a big deal and a significant accomplishment. This is especially true since the person is a young inner city male who is now taking advantage of what this great country has to offer, an education.
I want to acknowledge Ms. Dixon’s commitment to service as a teacher, mentor and leader in her school and in the community. She is an inspiration to me and to many others that have come to know and respect all that she does for our young people.
She is an Unsung Hero!
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