When Teaching Isn’t Sexy Anymore—Passion in the Classroom

By Melissa Miller, Ed.D., M.Ed.

A conversation came up recently with friends about what people are passionate about. I know people who are passionate about their hobbies (hockey, bicycling, cooking), causes (Race for the Cure, their alma mater), things (shoes, purses, toys, cars, homes), families (raising children, caring for elderly parents), and events (a holiday, a festival). What we are passionate about can range from the trivial to the vital, from the minute to the life-changing.

What is often not on this list when you reflect about what friends are passionate about? Very few people mentioned others (or themselves) being passionate about their jobs.

If someone asked, “What is Melissa Miller passionate about?” I’m not sure what they would respond. Most would likely say I’m passionate about family life: my husband and daughter, my dog and my extended family. Those are certainly at the top of the list. This is where I devote the bulk of my time, energy, and love. Others would also say I’m passionate about reading. I would also hope that my friends and colleagues would say I’m passionate about teaching and about working with my students.

When it comes to work, I am passionate about

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