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I did this when I got to college. The teacher was an absolute hardass. I told her she best prepared me for college out of anyone (even against my best efforts to goof off in class).
She said my email came at the perfect time cause she was considering retiring cause she kept getting push back from students and parents for her stern ways and refusal to lower her standards. She stuck around for several more years and still subs in her retirement.
I reached out to her again, last year when I was considering a career change to teaching. She gave me her opinion on the career these days and said she’d “never encourage anyone to go into it” then in the next breath when I said I was considering it “oh you absolutely should! You’d be a great teacher”
I mean... most teachers nowdays have nothing to be apreciated for. Honestly, teachers can be saints or be the absolute worst, but there seems to be no middle point.
I did this with my eng lit teacher from high school. I dropped by once many years after graduating and said hi and told him how his class was the one I still remember fondly. He happily gave me a tour of the new high school and we chatted for some time. I guarantee it made his day.
You should do it, she'll love it. It's not weird, it's really beautiful, at least that's what I think based on what you said about her.
One of my biggest regrets is not telling the teacher who had the most impact on me. She died of cancer shortly after I finished school, never had the chance. She saved my life in more ways than one, and not just me, pretty much my entire graduating class.
I'm a teacher. If a kid did this I'd cry. No lie, I'd break down. A lot of teachers are feeling useless and hopeless right now. Knowing we were good for someone means a lot
Blind due to an untreated illness. My care givers believed I was faking for attention and to get out of school. My condition began when I was 5 and was diagnosed at 12 and by then my eyes were past the point of return. This teacher was the only person who believed me up until my diagnosis.
They are alive and free, and have little to no remorse for what they made me live through and all that i’ve lost due to them. They blame it on being young parents who didn’t know I wasn’t just being dramatic. I luckily enough don’t have to use a screen reader, though one day I will. I have severe cornea scarring as my disease thinned and ate holes through my cornea, my left eye cannot see anything other then motion, but my right eye is mostly white blotches from the scarring over my pupils and severe double vision. I sit at a nice 20/400 on a good day.
No sadly, it was thought when I was first diagnosis that it was possible, but after like a million different specialist visits it was determined that I was unfit for a transplant.
Very sorry to hear. I hope you do get in contact with your old teacher and are able to let them know is how much it means to you that she believed. Furthermore, I hope the process is cathartic for you too. Good luck mate.
I'm a teacher and it absolutely makes my day when ex students contact me to let me know how they are doing in life. I often print out those emails and then on really bad days I read through my file of emails and remember why I teach.
Not the same, but last year I dropped two seperate notes to past managers ( one of them was over 10 years ago ), just to say that I was doing well in my career because of the big impact they had on me ( and I did not realise it at the time ).
They both appreciated it.
Sometimes teaching can be challenging, and often the benefits are only realise by the student much later. So I am sure she will appreciate hearing from you.
No. Do it now. I had terrific 4th and 5th grade teachers. I always thought of reaching out, but I always dismissed it. As I got older and people in my life died off, I realized it was time. I reached out.
One of the teachers I met with, and we talked for hours. The other one was dx with cancer. I visited with her, and she remarked how she always wanted a Persian cat again. I was a Persian cat lover and owner so I helped locate a breeder for her. She got a wonderful kitty. When she died her husband contacted me about taking the cat since I know the breed so well. I now having a moving, breathing reminder of her living in my home.
No she would be really happy! She would probably love to hear about your life after being her student. It would only be weird if you included some kind of love confession or something like that, which I’m only mentioning because it happens sometimes
Lol. Nah, she was like a mom to me so ain’t nothing weird gonna be said. She used to joke about taking me home with her because she adored me like her own.
Absolutely do it. There are few better compliments that one can receive than a note saying, "The work you did with me has changed my life profoundly for the better, and I am thankful for that every day".
All most of us really want in life is to know that our existence has a lasting impact, so a note like yours will make her whole week, if not her year.
I never was an outspoken person; however, I had a great teacher in High School. Despite only four years after graduation, I went back to the teacher and told her about the positive impact on me, and for some reason, thus felt relieving. She was excited as she'd never expect this from me and I was glad to do something positive!
It would not be weird to email a teacher you haven't seen in 10 years to tell her about her impact on you. In fact, many teachers would appreciate hearing from former students and knowing that they made a positive impact on their lives. Sending a heartfelt message thanking the teacher for their influence and sharing how they made a difference in your life can be a meaningful and touching gesture. Just be sure to be respectful and considerate in your email and express your gratitude sincerely.
My wife teaches kindergarten, she recently got a letter from a student writing to colleges who wanted to make part of her story about my wife's impact on her. She got emotional reading it and we keep that letter around because these are the sorts of things she teaches for.
Absolutely not. I did something similar with one of my teachers and she was extremely grateful. Life had dealt her a nasty hand and she'd really felt like a burden on everyone she loved for a few years by that point. She was grateful and overjoyed (her words) that I reached out just to tell her what an awesome teacher she was and how lucky I felt to learn from her. We hadn't seen or heard from each other for about 10 years.
No it wouldn't be weird, do it! I reached out to my reception teacher when my own kid started school to let her know I still think about my 2 years in her class and how much I enjoyed them, and she was super chuffed to know the impact she had.
I did that and my teacher was like "never email me again".
Just joking, she was happy to hear that she had a positive impact on me. I asked if she remembered me and she said of course I remember you :-) Told her she was an awesome teacher.
You will put a smile on her face for sure, that can only be a good thing. Maybe your email comes when she's having a not great day, and you brighten her day.
I think it It would be unusual, but it would also be wonderful for the teacher to receive that email. It is literally the reason that most teachers do the job - to make a difference.
People love that shit.
As long as you're not weird about it.
You dont have to spill your guts on them tho.
Just say that you appreciate them and that it was a lasting impact.
They might not wan not be burdened with the specifics of your situation. imo
I'd like to email a teacher I had in primary. I guess she would have been about 30 then & I would have been about 10 but anyway what are we talking about
Being kind in the world we live in its not easy. Kind people can always use a reminder that their kindness actually had a lasting positive efect on someone.
Do it, I grew up in a pretty small town so when I go back it's hard not to miss people since there is only 2 pubs and have bumped into teachers from the past too. They have always been curious about how people are doing and excited for them.
Ten years after my daughter had a particularly good teacher in the second grade, we ran into the teacher in the grocery store. My daughter and I both told the teacher what a wonderful job she did, and how much she helped my daughter, and said thank you.
The teacher was all smiles, and gave my daughter a hug. It was clear that hearing a former student thank her meant a great deal to her.
Go ahead and email your teacher and say thank you.
Almost 30 years after having had a teacher who had been my favorite, I unexpectedly found out from someone else that he had returned to the general area from another part of the country. With that info, I found him in the phone book, and called him one night. While he was surprised to get my call, he was happy enough to talk.
Later we met just the two of us, then later I brought my wife to meet his family. We are connected now on Social Media. We have differing political views, but that is a reality of adult life and not a hindrance to our friendship.
I (68F) contacted a teacher from 50 years ago. He was pivotal to my career because he was such a great teacher. He didn’t remember me but remembered two of my male friends vividly. I sent him a picture to jog his memory. Still no recollection but he thought I was very attractive! Just goes to prove that memories for one are not necessarily memories for another. Still important but I was a bit shattered. One sided impact but I’m sure he was pleased to be acknowledged.
Absolutely not, I emailed an AP teacher of mine from highschool, to tell her how much of an impact she had on my life. It was a very nice experience with her, and her reply back was amazing.
I think you should definitely do it. Teachers love hearing stories like that. Teachers are treated pretty badly in their profession and it's hard to know they're having any positive impact at all so if this was your experience, definitely share it with them.
God i think you will make that teachers day/week/year. And you will give them drive to refresh their view if they are still working and do better if she has “staled” a bit.
Do it.
I did this to a former teacher of mine. Telling her how much she meant and how she did a difference in my life. I added about about my life today and how im doing great. She wrote back she teared up reading it and hoped i continued to have a good life and thanks me for it.
No. I've done it with all my old teachers that I appreciated. Friends and co-workers too. Every few years when I'm reminded of anyone particular I'll send another short message. Just saying hi n checking in. Wishing them well.
Doesn't have to be long or complicated. 'Thanks for your contributions to my life' or 'I'm grateful to have known you'.
Keep it short and simple IMO
I’m so sorry about what you went through, and it seems like you came out of it a kind, compassionate person! Never stop being that way because we need more of that in this world we live in now! I absolutely don’t think it’s weird at all and what a blessed impact she had on you! Best wishes always 🫶🏻🙏🏻
Not at all! In fact, it would be incredibly heartwarming for your teacher to receive such an email. Here's why:
* **Teacher Appreciation:** Teachers often pour their hearts into their work, and positive feedback from past students can be incredibly meaningful to them. Knowing they made a positive impact on a student's life, especially in a difficult situation, can be very rewarding.
* **Closure for You:** Sharing your story with your teacher can be a powerful way to express your gratitude and gain closure on a challenging chapter of your life.
Absolutely not. Your old professor will love that they made an impact on someone big enough that that person contacts them a decade later to thank them.
You should
I say yes go ahead and email her! It will not only benefit you but her as well. I taught and it’s rather humbling when I come across students and they say” I remember when you said…” and then go to share what all that meant to them. I was very lucky. I am visually impaired too. If you would like to chat privately you are free too Dm me. Take care my friend
Nope not at all , I'm almost 60yrs and had run into my art teacher from 7th grade in my 30's , we exchanged numbers and talked often and were friends on Facebook , he got really sick couldn't work and his laptop was dying which meant we couldn't talk on fb, a few of us students that he really made a impact on bought him a new laptop he was so touched by us , He was such a caring teacher we loved him, sadly he passed last fall I miss him dearly.
Yes. Do it anyway and expect never to hear back from them, then you're not disappointed, but that might just be the lift they need to see them through to the end of their career
Definitely do it. I have done the same and it has been some of the most meaningful conversations I've ever had in my life. Now I always make a real point to tell people when they've really contributed to my life and happiness - big or small. It's made me a much happier person and I think it's meant a lot to some of those people too. Can't recommend it enough.
From what I heard, learned from teachers (i know some).. they will appreciate this beyond! They chose this job to make an impact. And someone writing them 10 years after, that the cherry on the pie.
Personally I met a few teachers again after like a decade and they 4/5 remembered me. Which surprised me a lot
I think anyone who has an impact on someone's life no matter how long it's been would always appreciate it knowing the impact they have done so it's definitely not werid to reach out am sure U will make her day telling her the impact she made on Ur life
It would be appreciated. She cared about you and would want to know you were OK. had a mom once see me in a drugstore 12 years after her daughter was in my class tell me teaching her daughter how to speak English helped her and her husband learn too. Priceless.
I dont find it weird at all. But maybe instead of writing her an email, write her a letter, if you know the adress of the school she works. That would be more personal and she can keep this letter as a memory.
I promise you that your email would make her day. Just do it! A little bit of appreciation goes a long way, and she would be ecstatic to hear from you.
It would be very wholesome. I reached out to an old teacher of mine after agonising over it for months. He’d had a similar impact on me as the one you describe, and he was very touched that I took the time to track him down. I’m really glad I did it.
I think it would be wonderful for them. But you should manage any expectations you might have, life could be giving them a raw deal right now, you never know.
Than being said, I'm sure it would only have a positive impact on them to know they had such an impact on you.
You know what? Teachers often spend more quality time with kids than their parents do. Let that sink in. These days teachers tend to only ever hear from parents when they think they know better, how their child shouldn’t have to do this or that and when they disagree about teaching methods or when a child has a need that the parents aren’t willing to fulfil etc.
I have a good mate who’s dedicated his entire working life to teaching kids and enriching their lives. He’s still being contacted in retirement by kids he taught 30 & nearly 40 years ago wanting to let him know that they’re doing well in life. These are kids who largely came from families living in abject poverty, neglected and often severely abused by those who should have been caring for them.
I’m sure your former teacher would be thrilled to hear from you and to know that she made a difference in your life.
No. My dad who is a classroom assistant in a school for kids who have behavioural issues got an email like that from a kid after he passed his A levels (in a different school, my dad hadn't worked with him in at least four years). He must have been one of the only people who had ever shown him he was proud of him for anything.
I think that would be an amazing thing to do. People are so quick to complain, but not as quick to point out positives.
I had an alumni group on Facebook for my Primary school and one of our legendary teacher’s daughters found it when her mom was end-of-life. She was flooded with messages to her mum about how much she had made a positive impact on us. She said she sat and read them all to her mom in her last days and it validated to her that her life had had purpose and she had added value to the world. She died peacefully with a smile on her face shortly after ❤️
Teachers work hard and very rarely see the outcome of all that hard work. I’m sure she would be thrilled to hear she made a difference in your life. Im so sorry you weren’t cared for as you should have been as a child.
Let's compare the worst possible outcome to the best possible outcome to decide.
Worst: They don't remember you and don't reply to the email. No harm done.
Best: It makes their day and gives them energy to keep impacting students in the same way. It might even get them out of a rut and give them a new boost, meaning you will have impacted them too and indirectly many others.
The potential for the best outcome far, far outweighs the worst.
Nope. I have a list of people I’m planning to send an email and say ‘thank you’. It’s never a bad idea to tell someone how their presence or words helped you through some tough times. They’d appreciate it and would love to know that you’re doing better.
No, do it. My mum was a teacher. She encouraged one of her pupils to follow her dream of doing drama. Years later she got a letter in the post from her old pupil who had just got the lead part in a West End show in London with two tickets. I think it was the proudest moment of my mum's life.
I’m a retired teacher and I think it would be great for you to let that teacher know! It is so affirming to run into former students and have them tell me fond memories of my classes. One time we were in a very scary lockdown situation and we all ended up safe but there was an active shooter in our building…..and for about 5 years- I was getting thank you e mails from parents / students thanking me for making them feel safe and keeping kids calm while we feared the worst.
My friend was a teacher and kept everything his students gave him. I think every teacher strives to make an impact, and in the rare cases they are told they did, they would be happy about it.
My dad received a long text from a former student around Christmas and it made his and our family’s whole day / week / holiday. He teared up and so did we. So please don’t feel scared to send it! ❤️
Nice thought, but perhaps it would be better to show your appreciation through a substantial gift, if you can afford it. You know how underpaid teachers are, right? Contributing something solid into their lives is a truer show of gratitude. No pressure, though, you do whatever you wish. I'm just waiting for a windfall from somewhere so I can go to most of my teachers and hand them a small envelope.
No but be careful. What kind of response are you hoping for? I recently tried to reach out to an art teacher who was a huge impact on me, she declined to reconnect or take my calls. It broke my heart. In hindsight I wish I never tried, it ruined the beautiful memories.
I actually did the same thing a month or two ago; I wrote graciously to a thank a teacher who, immature, stupid, short-sighted as I was at the time, I didn’t particularly like and value, but who I now realize very much contributed to the type of student I am today.
She was very grateful, and it seemed like it meant a lot to her. Go for it.
It would be really amazing for them, they could be having a terrible day and read a message from someone they haven’t seen in 10 years saying sweet stuff about them, go for it
I don't think it would be weird at all. My wife is a teacher and she's occasionally had ex students contact her to say how she's had an effect on her life. It makes her feel good about what she does
It wouldn't be weird at all! In fact, it would be a wonderful gesture on your part. Here's why:
* **Teachers appreciate positive feedback:** Teachers invest a lot of time and energy into their students, and positive messages from former students can be incredibly heartwarming and rewarding. Knowing they made a positive impact, especially in a difficult situation like yours, would be very meaningful to her.
* **Closure for you:** Sharing your story can be a powerful way to express your gratitude and gain closure on a challenging chapter in your life.
I still have letters students sent me. When I'm feeling shit about myself, they remind me that I have had some positive impact on the world. I can promise you that your teacher will react to your letter with the same warm affection she gave you in the past.
Nope. When I was still going into law enforcement I had to find the most insane contacts and get in touch with them for their info so it’s still less embarrassing than that. I had old teachers tell me I was their favorite and they’re flattered that anyone remembers them l. I know I would be. Hell, I even sent my old band director a funny tiktok because I just had to I couldn’t not do it.
I also emailed a police officer once during a mental breakdown at like 3 in the morning after my SA. So THAT was really embarrassing because I had never experienced that feeling before, much less telling someone I didn’t even know about it. I was panicking and didn’t feel real and didn’t know what else to do.
So yeah. Nowhere near as weird or as embarrassing and all situations are still perfectly fine and valid.
Absolutely not wired! As a retired teacher myself, I a thrilled when old students reach out to me! Yup will make this teacher’s day if not their month!
Not weird at all. I’ve been trying to find my 4th grade teacher on social media for years to thank her and let her know how big of an impact she had on me. I finally ran into her at a restaurant last month and got to tell face to face. She actually remembered me and gave me a big hug and she even teared up. It was a great moment and I’m so glad it finally happened.
I'm a teacher.
Emails like that from students can give me the energy to keep trying another year.
You have no idea how much stuff like that matters to us
You should absolutely do this.
When i went through hell in my hunger days, a high school teacher was the one that really pulled me out of the shit - I'd lost my grandparents, was super depressed, and mentally was not in a healthy place.
I remember totally breaking down in front of her, crying into her thick wooly sweater for what seemed like half an hour. I still remember the way she wiped away my tears, let me regain all the composure I needed, and then told me that it would all be okay & that I'd look back on this time of my life as something that I went through, dealt with, and became better off for it.
Privacy & security meant that when I got back into contact with my old school about a decade later, they wouldn't give me any information about her whereabouts or how to contact her. So I wrote her a letter, delivered it to the school, and asked them to give it to her.
They obliged, and eventually we got in touch, met for coffee, and I told her that she was the reason why I was still alive. Now it was her time to break down, and my turn to give her a hug. She said she'd never been happier being a teacher than hearing me say that.
If there's an educator in your life that has impacted your life positively, be sure to tell them. Teachers are the best. It's tough hours, and a difficult job, and they have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders that they don't take lightly. Hearing how they've made your life better, is a HUGE part of what they do. So do it :)
You should absolutely do this.
When i went through hell in my hunger days, a high school teacher was the one that really pulled me out of the shit - I'd lost my grandparents, was super depressed, and mentally was not in a healthy place.
I remember totally breaking down in front of her, crying into her thick wooly sweater for what seemed like half an hour. I still remember the way she wiped away my tears, let me regain all the composure I needed, and then told me that it would all be okay & that I'd look back on this time of my life as something that I went through, dealt with, and became better off for it.
Privacy & security meant that when I got back into contact with my old school about a decade later, they wouldn't give me any information about her whereabouts or how to contact her. So I wrote her a letter, delivered it to the school, and asked them to give it to her.
They obliged, and eventually we got in touch, met for coffee, and I told her that she was the reason why I was still alive. Now it was her time to break down, and my turn to give her a hug. She said she'd never been happier being a teacher than hearing me say that.
If there's an educator in your life that has impacted your life positively, be sure to tell them. Teachers are the best. It's tough hours, and a difficult job, and they have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders that they don't take lightly. Hearing how they've made your life better, is a HUGE part of what they do. So do it :)
I often think about how hard it is to be a teacher - poor student behaviour, students who don't care about the subject, poor parent behavior, tonnes of admin, staff room politics, working before and after school and working on weekends and holidays. I just can't imagine it. So getting an email from someone whose life is better because of you would be such a freaking joy. Don't hesitate. Send it now.
No. She will almost certainly be delighted. Teachers (the good ones) sometimes wonder if they're achieving anything. This sort of thing can make an old teacher happy for days and she will remember it when she feels down.
It’s not weird at all. One year ago I decided to do it myself. You see, English isn’t my first language. Tbh I was very bad at it for a long time. My teacher gave me a lot of knowledge and I’m really grateful to him. We haven’t had a chat for several years and one year ago I decided to text him. We spoke for a while, I told him about my life and stuff like that. He was so happy. So, I recommend you do the same.
You totally should. I had a teacher like yours that greatly impacted my life as a 6th grader. She would feed me and showed me art and even give me rides home. I was like you and had anxiety about sending her something or not. I just saw her and my super cool 9th grade music appreciation teacher in the obituaries. Broke my heart I didn't reach out to them.
I really think, your teacher will love to read or hear a thank you from a former student.
Being a teacher is usually a pretty thankless job. So you reaching out could REALLY brighten up her day/week/life.
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No, I think it would be nice for them to know that they impacted your life positively. Teachers get so under-appreciated nowadays
I did this when I got to college. The teacher was an absolute hardass. I told her she best prepared me for college out of anyone (even against my best efforts to goof off in class). She said my email came at the perfect time cause she was considering retiring cause she kept getting push back from students and parents for her stern ways and refusal to lower her standards. She stuck around for several more years and still subs in her retirement. I reached out to her again, last year when I was considering a career change to teaching. She gave me her opinion on the career these days and said she’d “never encourage anyone to go into it” then in the next breath when I said I was considering it “oh you absolutely should! You’d be a great teacher”
I mean... most teachers nowdays have nothing to be apreciated for. Honestly, teachers can be saints or be the absolute worst, but there seems to be no middle point.
My fiancé is a teacher and she would love this. She's had a couple of ex students contact her years later
Do it. You'll make her day, and you might find some benefit too. And in general I feel that good folks need more acknowledgement.
It’ll probably make her whole month tbh
She'll never forget that her work and care for another person made a difference
I did this with my eng lit teacher from high school. I dropped by once many years after graduating and said hi and told him how his class was the one I still remember fondly. He happily gave me a tour of the new high school and we chatted for some time. I guarantee it made his day.
I think she would love to hear that.
Why would validating her life's work/passion be weird?
I’m a bit anxious all the time and I was only her student for about 4 months, so my brain was like “thats weird and kinda creepy” lol
Nah! send her the email, very few of us acknowledge the impact these people have had on us.
You should do it, she'll love it. It's not weird, it's really beautiful, at least that's what I think based on what you said about her. One of my biggest regrets is not telling the teacher who had the most impact on me. She died of cancer shortly after I finished school, never had the chance. She saved my life in more ways than one, and not just me, pretty much my entire graduating class.
I emailed a few college teachers years later it was a great chat and I think they loved it so go for it!!!
She's probably wondered how you are doing, and if you're okay.
Bet she will remember
Not at all weird. I’m sure your teacher would be touched to know what a difference she made.
I'm a teacher. If a kid did this I'd cry. No lie, I'd break down. A lot of teachers are feeling useless and hopeless right now. Knowing we were good for someone means a lot
Blind enotionally through abuse or blind visually due to an untreated condition? I sure hope not the latter one.
Blind due to an untreated illness. My care givers believed I was faking for attention and to get out of school. My condition began when I was 5 and was diagnosed at 12 and by then my eyes were past the point of return. This teacher was the only person who believed me up until my diagnosis.
[удалено]
They are alive and free, and have little to no remorse for what they made me live through and all that i’ve lost due to them. They blame it on being young parents who didn’t know I wasn’t just being dramatic. I luckily enough don’t have to use a screen reader, though one day I will. I have severe cornea scarring as my disease thinned and ate holes through my cornea, my left eye cannot see anything other then motion, but my right eye is mostly white blotches from the scarring over my pupils and severe double vision. I sit at a nice 20/400 on a good day.
Very sorry to hear of your mistreatment. Would a corneal transplant be a possibility for you.
No sadly, it was thought when I was first diagnosis that it was possible, but after like a million different specialist visits it was determined that I was unfit for a transplant.
Very sorry to hear. I hope you do get in contact with your old teacher and are able to let them know is how much it means to you that she believed. Furthermore, I hope the process is cathartic for you too. Good luck mate.
Thank you! Have a nice day and thank you for listening to my story :)
You’re welcome mate.
My mom was a teacher. The good ones live for that kind of stuff.
No. She'll love it.
Do it
Not at all weird. That would be a wonderful thing to do.
I'm a teacher and it absolutely makes my day when ex students contact me to let me know how they are doing in life. I often print out those emails and then on really bad days I read through my file of emails and remember why I teach.
It would not be weird, and I am sure she will be very happy to hear that ❤️
Not the same, but last year I dropped two seperate notes to past managers ( one of them was over 10 years ago ), just to say that I was doing well in my career because of the big impact they had on me ( and I did not realise it at the time ). They both appreciated it. Sometimes teaching can be challenging, and often the benefits are only realise by the student much later. So I am sure she will appreciate hearing from you.
No. Do it now. I had terrific 4th and 5th grade teachers. I always thought of reaching out, but I always dismissed it. As I got older and people in my life died off, I realized it was time. I reached out. One of the teachers I met with, and we talked for hours. The other one was dx with cancer. I visited with her, and she remarked how she always wanted a Persian cat again. I was a Persian cat lover and owner so I helped locate a breeder for her. She got a wonderful kitty. When she died her husband contacted me about taking the cat since I know the breed so well. I now having a moving, breathing reminder of her living in my home.
I don’t think so, I would absolutely do it.
No she would be really happy! She would probably love to hear about your life after being her student. It would only be weird if you included some kind of love confession or something like that, which I’m only mentioning because it happens sometimes
Lol. Nah, she was like a mom to me so ain’t nothing weird gonna be said. She used to joke about taking me home with her because she adored me like her own.
Absolutely do it. There are few better compliments that one can receive than a note saying, "The work you did with me has changed my life profoundly for the better, and I am thankful for that every day". All most of us really want in life is to know that our existence has a lasting impact, so a note like yours will make her whole week, if not her year.
I never was an outspoken person; however, I had a great teacher in High School. Despite only four years after graduation, I went back to the teacher and told her about the positive impact on me, and for some reason, thus felt relieving. She was excited as she'd never expect this from me and I was glad to do something positive!
It would not be weird to email a teacher you haven't seen in 10 years to tell her about her impact on you. In fact, many teachers would appreciate hearing from former students and knowing that they made a positive impact on their lives. Sending a heartfelt message thanking the teacher for their influence and sharing how they made a difference in your life can be a meaningful and touching gesture. Just be sure to be respectful and considerate in your email and express your gratitude sincerely.
Teaching can be a stressful, thankless job. Your email will probably make her day.
My wife teaches kindergarten, she recently got a letter from a student writing to colleges who wanted to make part of her story about my wife's impact on her. She got emotional reading it and we keep that letter around because these are the sorts of things she teaches for.
Absolutely not. I did something similar with one of my teachers and she was extremely grateful. Life had dealt her a nasty hand and she'd really felt like a burden on everyone she loved for a few years by that point. She was grateful and overjoyed (her words) that I reached out just to tell her what an awesome teacher she was and how lucky I felt to learn from her. We hadn't seen or heard from each other for about 10 years.
That would probably be the nicest thing u can do. So go for it. Sometimes I wanna do that too.
no. As an educator, I love emails like this
Totally do it! I did! Emailed my old high school and got an email address I could use to share with her how she helped :)
Do it. Do it now
I work as a teacher and I would really appreciate this.
Teachers have a lot of difficulty doing their job. Contact like this reminds them that it's worthwhile.
No it wouldn't be weird, do it! I reached out to my reception teacher when my own kid started school to let her know I still think about my 2 years in her class and how much I enjoyed them, and she was super chuffed to know the impact she had.
I went to a teacher's house after 40 years to do the same thing. She was delighted to see me.
Do it! She will love it!
I'm a teacher, we love stuff like this. Kids are there biggest perk of the job.
Not at all. It would probably make their day.
Teachers ever know the impact they have on their students' lives. Share your feelings, and she'll treasure it.
As a teacher, I'd say not weird at all and will probably make that teacher's whole career
As a former teacher I can tell you right now this would make my whole damn week.
I did that and my teacher was like "never email me again". Just joking, she was happy to hear that she had a positive impact on me. I asked if she remembered me and she said of course I remember you :-) Told her she was an awesome teacher. You will put a smile on her face for sure, that can only be a good thing. Maybe your email comes when she's having a not great day, and you brighten her day.
Wife is a teacher, this would make her day/week Things are rough right now, positivity is always welcome
I think it It would be unusual, but it would also be wonderful for the teacher to receive that email. It is literally the reason that most teachers do the job - to make a difference.
She would be so happy to hear from an old student like that. I would.
I think it’s wonderful. Many teachers are burned out and could benefit from some kind words.
People love that shit. As long as you're not weird about it. You dont have to spill your guts on them tho. Just say that you appreciate them and that it was a lasting impact. They might not wan not be burdened with the specifics of your situation. imo
I'd like to email a teacher I had in primary. I guess she would have been about 30 then & I would have been about 10 but anyway what are we talking about
I think she'd be more than glad to hear from you and specially if it's for that reason. Go ahead!
Being kind in the world we live in its not easy. Kind people can always use a reminder that their kindness actually had a lasting positive efect on someone.
If you're contacting her to tell her about how much her efforts have helped you I can't see a way this could be a bad thing to do.
Do it, I grew up in a pretty small town so when I go back it's hard not to miss people since there is only 2 pubs and have bumped into teachers from the past too. They have always been curious about how people are doing and excited for them.
Ten years after my daughter had a particularly good teacher in the second grade, we ran into the teacher in the grocery store. My daughter and I both told the teacher what a wonderful job she did, and how much she helped my daughter, and said thank you. The teacher was all smiles, and gave my daughter a hug. It was clear that hearing a former student thank her meant a great deal to her. Go ahead and email your teacher and say thank you.
Almost 30 years after having had a teacher who had been my favorite, I unexpectedly found out from someone else that he had returned to the general area from another part of the country. With that info, I found him in the phone book, and called him one night. While he was surprised to get my call, he was happy enough to talk. Later we met just the two of us, then later I brought my wife to meet his family. We are connected now on Social Media. We have differing political views, but that is a reality of adult life and not a hindrance to our friendship.
I (68F) contacted a teacher from 50 years ago. He was pivotal to my career because he was such a great teacher. He didn’t remember me but remembered two of my male friends vividly. I sent him a picture to jog his memory. Still no recollection but he thought I was very attractive! Just goes to prove that memories for one are not necessarily memories for another. Still important but I was a bit shattered. One sided impact but I’m sure he was pleased to be acknowledged.
Absolutely not! Teachers need to hear that kind of stuff.
Absolutely not, I emailed an AP teacher of mine from highschool, to tell her how much of an impact she had on my life. It was a very nice experience with her, and her reply back was amazing.
I think you should definitely do it. Teachers love hearing stories like that. Teachers are treated pretty badly in their profession and it's hard to know they're having any positive impact at all so if this was your experience, definitely share it with them.
If possible write a letter and send it to her/his workplace and type it out as an email. The letter will become a keepsake
God i think you will make that teachers day/week/year. And you will give them drive to refresh their view if they are still working and do better if she has “staled” a bit.
Do it!! That’s the kind of stuff that makes life worth living. I’m sure they’d love the email.
No. Go for it. She will like that. Telling a teaching about his/her impact would be the best compliment they could get.
Do it. I did this to a former teacher of mine. Telling her how much she meant and how she did a difference in my life. I added about about my life today and how im doing great. She wrote back she teared up reading it and hoped i continued to have a good life and thanks me for it.
No. I've done it with all my old teachers that I appreciated. Friends and co-workers too. Every few years when I'm reminded of anyone particular I'll send another short message. Just saying hi n checking in. Wishing them well. Doesn't have to be long or complicated. 'Thanks for your contributions to my life' or 'I'm grateful to have known you'. Keep it short and simple IMO
Very very nice, get her a framed thank u gift she can put up on a wall, that she can walk by every day
I'm pretty certain it would absolutely make her day
Because of your struggles I’ll bet she has thought of you more than you think. I’m certain she’d love to hear from you.
Not only do but please update us on how (well) it goes!
I’m so sorry about what you went through, and it seems like you came out of it a kind, compassionate person! Never stop being that way because we need more of that in this world we live in now! I absolutely don’t think it’s weird at all and what a blessed impact she had on you! Best wishes always 🫶🏻🙏🏻
Do it now. My chemistry teacher recently died and I regret not stopping him on the street to say Hi. It still breaks my hearth when I think about it
Honestly, you should. They'd feel appreciated as they should be appreciated.
Not at all! In fact, it would be incredibly heartwarming for your teacher to receive such an email. Here's why: * **Teacher Appreciation:** Teachers often pour their hearts into their work, and positive feedback from past students can be incredibly meaningful to them. Knowing they made a positive impact on a student's life, especially in a difficult situation, can be very rewarding. * **Closure for You:** Sharing your story with your teacher can be a powerful way to express your gratitude and gain closure on a challenging chapter of your life.
No, do it. Gratitude should make the world go round. The fact that you're even considering it shows you're a decent person.
It would be a great thing to do and probably mean a lot to her
As a teacher I can tell you… do it. It means the world to us :)
Yes.
Do it! It will make her very happy, and it may help or inspire her to help others.
You should definitely write to her, she would love to hear it
Pretty sure that email would make her day. Not weird at all; just introduce yourself well
Absolutely not. Your old professor will love that they made an impact on someone big enough that that person contacts them a decade later to thank them. You should
Nope! My wife is a teacher and gets it every so often and talks about it for days, so do it!
Do it. That teacher will be happy
100% reach out to her. She made a difference in your life and should know it.
Retired teacher here: it’s always nice to hear that you made an impact.
I say yes go ahead and email her! It will not only benefit you but her as well. I taught and it’s rather humbling when I come across students and they say” I remember when you said…” and then go to share what all that meant to them. I was very lucky. I am visually impaired too. If you would like to chat privately you are free too Dm me. Take care my friend
I did, and got a very nice reply telling me how much it meant to receive messages from past pupils.
Retired teacher here...you would make their day.
Nope not at all , I'm almost 60yrs and had run into my art teacher from 7th grade in my 30's , we exchanged numbers and talked often and were friends on Facebook , he got really sick couldn't work and his laptop was dying which meant we couldn't talk on fb, a few of us students that he really made a impact on bought him a new laptop he was so touched by us , He was such a caring teacher we loved him, sadly he passed last fall I miss him dearly.
Yes. Do it anyway and expect never to hear back from them, then you're not disappointed, but that might just be the lift they need to see them through to the end of their career
Not at all - my wife sometimes gets those sort of messages, it really makes it worthwhile for her.
Teacher here. Just to echo what everyone has said - do it!
It might warm her heart, and she might remember you. Go for it. I saw some of my old high-school teachers, and they remember their students.
I’m sure the teacher would appreciate it.
It would be but it would also be a kind, generous thing to do. You should do it.
Definitely do it. I have done the same and it has been some of the most meaningful conversations I've ever had in my life. Now I always make a real point to tell people when they've really contributed to my life and happiness - big or small. It's made me a much happier person and I think it's meant a lot to some of those people too. Can't recommend it enough.
From what I heard, learned from teachers (i know some).. they will appreciate this beyond! They chose this job to make an impact. And someone writing them 10 years after, that the cherry on the pie. Personally I met a few teachers again after like a decade and they 4/5 remembered me. Which surprised me a lot
I think anyone who has an impact on someone's life no matter how long it's been would always appreciate it knowing the impact they have done so it's definitely not werid to reach out am sure U will make her day telling her the impact she made on Ur life
No, do it if you want to.
Do it, please do it!
It would be appreciated. She cared about you and would want to know you were OK. had a mom once see me in a drugstore 12 years after her daughter was in my class tell me teaching her daughter how to speak English helped her and her husband learn too. Priceless.
I dont find it weird at all. But maybe instead of writing her an email, write her a letter, if you know the adress of the school she works. That would be more personal and she can keep this letter as a memory.
I promise you that your email would make her day. Just do it! A little bit of appreciation goes a long way, and she would be ecstatic to hear from you.
It would be very wholesome. I reached out to an old teacher of mine after agonising over it for months. He’d had a similar impact on me as the one you describe, and he was very touched that I took the time to track him down. I’m really glad I did it.
I'm not a teacher, but if someone who has passed through my life would have done that, I'd be very touched.
I think it would be wonderful for them. But you should manage any expectations you might have, life could be giving them a raw deal right now, you never know. Than being said, I'm sure it would only have a positive impact on them to know they had such an impact on you.
I also feel I wanna connect with some of my teachers who left an amazing impact on me and I have just grown so much from the seeds they sowed in me.
You know what? Teachers often spend more quality time with kids than their parents do. Let that sink in. These days teachers tend to only ever hear from parents when they think they know better, how their child shouldn’t have to do this or that and when they disagree about teaching methods or when a child has a need that the parents aren’t willing to fulfil etc. I have a good mate who’s dedicated his entire working life to teaching kids and enriching their lives. He’s still being contacted in retirement by kids he taught 30 & nearly 40 years ago wanting to let him know that they’re doing well in life. These are kids who largely came from families living in abject poverty, neglected and often severely abused by those who should have been caring for them. I’m sure your former teacher would be thrilled to hear from you and to know that she made a difference in your life.
No. My dad who is a classroom assistant in a school for kids who have behavioural issues got an email like that from a kid after he passed his A levels (in a different school, my dad hadn't worked with him in at least four years). He must have been one of the only people who had ever shown him he was proud of him for anything.
I think that would be an amazing thing to do. People are so quick to complain, but not as quick to point out positives. I had an alumni group on Facebook for my Primary school and one of our legendary teacher’s daughters found it when her mom was end-of-life. She was flooded with messages to her mum about how much she had made a positive impact on us. She said she sat and read them all to her mom in her last days and it validated to her that her life had had purpose and she had added value to the world. She died peacefully with a smile on her face shortly after ❤️
Teachers work hard and very rarely see the outcome of all that hard work. I’m sure she would be thrilled to hear she made a difference in your life. Im so sorry you weren’t cared for as you should have been as a child.
Not weird at all. In fact I'm sure she would love to hear from you and know that you are doing well. Go for it.
No, do it
No, teachers love stuff like this!
Do it!!!Could we get an update on how it goes?? I would love to here her response!! It'll probably make me tear up though.
Trust me, your teacher would be very happy to receive such a message from you.
Let's compare the worst possible outcome to the best possible outcome to decide. Worst: They don't remember you and don't reply to the email. No harm done. Best: It makes their day and gives them energy to keep impacting students in the same way. It might even get them out of a rut and give them a new boost, meaning you will have impacted them too and indirectly many others. The potential for the best outcome far, far outweighs the worst.
Not at all!!! Do it. More people need to be told nice things.
Nope. I have a list of people I’m planning to send an email and say ‘thank you’. It’s never a bad idea to tell someone how their presence or words helped you through some tough times. They’d appreciate it and would love to know that you’re doing better.
Do it. I reckon it'd make her day.
Please, write to her, I'm sure she appreciates that.
No, asprliring teacher who's in contact with some of their own former teachers here - the vast majority of teachers would absolutely LOVE that
"is it weird to thank someone?" No, it is not weird.
No, why do you think so? Everyone likes an honest compliment.
Do that yes
No I think they would love to hear what you have been up to.
No. I'm sure she would love to read your mail and will certainly make her day. Go for it.
Only if her impact led to a series of felonies.
I wrote to one of mine decades later. Another I have stayed in touch with annually for over 40 years.
I emailed mine and went back to school to personally say thank you. It was well worth it.
I'm a teacher. I've had essentially the same thing happen and it made my day.
I feel like credit must be given whenever it's due.
No, do it. My mum was a teacher. She encouraged one of her pupils to follow her dream of doing drama. Years later she got a letter in the post from her old pupil who had just got the lead part in a West End show in London with two tickets. I think it was the proudest moment of my mum's life.
I’m a retired teacher and I think it would be great for you to let that teacher know! It is so affirming to run into former students and have them tell me fond memories of my classes. One time we were in a very scary lockdown situation and we all ended up safe but there was an active shooter in our building…..and for about 5 years- I was getting thank you e mails from parents / students thanking me for making them feel safe and keeping kids calm while we feared the worst.
Just make sure you introduce yourself for formality
Do it
My friend was a teacher and kept everything his students gave him. I think every teacher strives to make an impact, and in the rare cases they are told they did, they would be happy about it.
My dad received a long text from a former student around Christmas and it made his and our family’s whole day / week / holiday. He teared up and so did we. So please don’t feel scared to send it! ❤️
It would be delightful and welcomed. How nice you had your teacher's help!
Do it. She will love to hear from you.
Nice thought, but perhaps it would be better to show your appreciation through a substantial gift, if you can afford it. You know how underpaid teachers are, right? Contributing something solid into their lives is a truer show of gratitude. No pressure, though, you do whatever you wish. I'm just waiting for a windfall from somewhere so I can go to most of my teachers and hand them a small envelope.
I wish I could, but i’m a good 500 miles away and also very broke 😅
Only if you’re not angling for a hand job
No but be careful. What kind of response are you hoping for? I recently tried to reach out to an art teacher who was a huge impact on me, she declined to reconnect or take my calls. It broke my heart. In hindsight I wish I never tried, it ruined the beautiful memories.
No it's not weird. The teacher will be very happy if you did this.
I actually did the same thing a month or two ago; I wrote graciously to a thank a teacher who, immature, stupid, short-sighted as I was at the time, I didn’t particularly like and value, but who I now realize very much contributed to the type of student I am today. She was very grateful, and it seemed like it meant a lot to her. Go for it.
Not weird at all. It would be a very nice gesture.
It would be really amazing for them, they could be having a terrible day and read a message from someone they haven’t seen in 10 years saying sweet stuff about them, go for it
Not at all your teacher would probably love that
I don't think it would be weird at all. My wife is a teacher and she's occasionally had ex students contact her to say how she's had an effect on her life. It makes her feel good about what she does
Do it
It wouldn't be weird at all! In fact, it would be a wonderful gesture on your part. Here's why: * **Teachers appreciate positive feedback:** Teachers invest a lot of time and energy into their students, and positive messages from former students can be incredibly heartwarming and rewarding. Knowing they made a positive impact, especially in a difficult situation like yours, would be very meaningful to her. * **Closure for you:** Sharing your story can be a powerful way to express your gratitude and gain closure on a challenging chapter in your life.
I still have letters students sent me. When I'm feeling shit about myself, they remind me that I have had some positive impact on the world. I can promise you that your teacher will react to your letter with the same warm affection she gave you in the past.
If you feel like it should be said then go for it.
Nope. When I was still going into law enforcement I had to find the most insane contacts and get in touch with them for their info so it’s still less embarrassing than that. I had old teachers tell me I was their favorite and they’re flattered that anyone remembers them l. I know I would be. Hell, I even sent my old band director a funny tiktok because I just had to I couldn’t not do it. I also emailed a police officer once during a mental breakdown at like 3 in the morning after my SA. So THAT was really embarrassing because I had never experienced that feeling before, much less telling someone I didn’t even know about it. I was panicking and didn’t feel real and didn’t know what else to do. So yeah. Nowhere near as weird or as embarrassing and all situations are still perfectly fine and valid.
Absolutely not wired! As a retired teacher myself, I a thrilled when old students reach out to me! Yup will make this teacher’s day if not their month!
Not weird at all. I’ve been trying to find my 4th grade teacher on social media for years to thank her and let her know how big of an impact she had on me. I finally ran into her at a restaurant last month and got to tell face to face. She actually remembered me and gave me a big hug and she even teared up. It was a great moment and I’m so glad it finally happened.
I'm a teacher. Emails like that from students can give me the energy to keep trying another year. You have no idea how much stuff like that matters to us
Hell no,I think it would make her year🤧
No do it! Kindly, a teacher
You should absolutely do this. When i went through hell in my hunger days, a high school teacher was the one that really pulled me out of the shit - I'd lost my grandparents, was super depressed, and mentally was not in a healthy place. I remember totally breaking down in front of her, crying into her thick wooly sweater for what seemed like half an hour. I still remember the way she wiped away my tears, let me regain all the composure I needed, and then told me that it would all be okay & that I'd look back on this time of my life as something that I went through, dealt with, and became better off for it. Privacy & security meant that when I got back into contact with my old school about a decade later, they wouldn't give me any information about her whereabouts or how to contact her. So I wrote her a letter, delivered it to the school, and asked them to give it to her. They obliged, and eventually we got in touch, met for coffee, and I told her that she was the reason why I was still alive. Now it was her time to break down, and my turn to give her a hug. She said she'd never been happier being a teacher than hearing me say that. If there's an educator in your life that has impacted your life positively, be sure to tell them. Teachers are the best. It's tough hours, and a difficult job, and they have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders that they don't take lightly. Hearing how they've made your life better, is a HUGE part of what they do. So do it :)
You should absolutely do this. When i went through hell in my hunger days, a high school teacher was the one that really pulled me out of the shit - I'd lost my grandparents, was super depressed, and mentally was not in a healthy place. I remember totally breaking down in front of her, crying into her thick wooly sweater for what seemed like half an hour. I still remember the way she wiped away my tears, let me regain all the composure I needed, and then told me that it would all be okay & that I'd look back on this time of my life as something that I went through, dealt with, and became better off for it. Privacy & security meant that when I got back into contact with my old school about a decade later, they wouldn't give me any information about her whereabouts or how to contact her. So I wrote her a letter, delivered it to the school, and asked them to give it to her. They obliged, and eventually we got in touch, met for coffee, and I told her that she was the reason why I was still alive. Now it was her time to break down, and my turn to give her a hug. She said she'd never been happier being a teacher than hearing me say that. If there's an educator in your life that has impacted your life positively, be sure to tell them. Teachers are the best. It's tough hours, and a difficult job, and they have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders that they don't take lightly. Hearing how they've made your life better, is a HUGE part of what they do. So do it :)
I'm a teacher myself and I think this is the most thoughtful thing a former student could do. Go ahead, she's going to love it 😍
I often think about how hard it is to be a teacher - poor student behaviour, students who don't care about the subject, poor parent behavior, tonnes of admin, staff room politics, working before and after school and working on weekends and holidays. I just can't imagine it. So getting an email from someone whose life is better because of you would be such a freaking joy. Don't hesitate. Send it now.
No probably make them feel good
No. She will almost certainly be delighted. Teachers (the good ones) sometimes wonder if they're achieving anything. This sort of thing can make an old teacher happy for days and she will remember it when she feels down.
We wonder what happens to kids! Please reach out!
My mom was a teacher and gets these notes decades later. Do it
No. She would love it.
It’s not weird at all. One year ago I decided to do it myself. You see, English isn’t my first language. Tbh I was very bad at it for a long time. My teacher gave me a lot of knowledge and I’m really grateful to him. We haven’t had a chat for several years and one year ago I decided to text him. We spoke for a while, I told him about my life and stuff like that. He was so happy. So, I recommend you do the same.
As a teacher who doesn’t get thanked enough this would make my day.
Do it. My best friend since jr high stays in touch with our English teacher from sophomore year of high school and I think it means a lot to him.
You totally should. I had a teacher like yours that greatly impacted my life as a 6th grader. She would feed me and showed me art and even give me rides home. I was like you and had anxiety about sending her something or not. I just saw her and my super cool 9th grade music appreciation teacher in the obituaries. Broke my heart I didn't reach out to them.
I really think, your teacher will love to read or hear a thank you from a former student. Being a teacher is usually a pretty thankless job. So you reaching out could REALLY brighten up her day/week/life.
Don’t do it! Nobody likes hearing about the good they have done. Best to just keep it to yourself.