Full of Gratitude, Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future: Why We Must All Champion the Next Generation of Educators

by Sheryl Abshire

November is Gratitude Month at The Worthy Educator!

After 46 years as an educator, mentor, and lifelong learner, I find myself both grateful and reflective. My journey from classroom teacher to principal, to university professor, to chief technology officer, and now as an edtech specialist, author and consultant has been one of constant growth, challenge, and profound joy. Along the way, I have had the privilege of learning from remarkable colleagues, mentoring emerging leaders, and witnessing the transformative power of education at every level.

The honors, awards, and recognitions I’ve received throughout my career are humbling reminders of what we can accomplish when passion meets purpose. Yet, as I celebrate these milestones, I’m increasingly aware of a sobering reality: the ranks of educators are shrinking. Fewer individuals are choosing to enter the classroom, and more are leaving before they reach their full potential.

This trend should concern every one of us. Education is not simply a career, it is a calling, a commitment to shaping the minds and hearts that will define our collective future. If we fail to attract, inspire, and support new educators, we risk losing more than talent; we risk diminishing the very foundation of our democracy and community.

As those who have experienced the rewards of this noble profession, we have a responsibility to advocate for it.

• Talk to young people about why teaching matters.
  

• Support mentorship programs.
  

• Encourage pathways into education that highlight innovation, creativity, and impact.

The truth is, few professions offer the same opportunity to touch lives, build futures, and leave a legacy. Our challenge and our privilege is to ensure that the next generation of educators understand this truth.

As I reflect with gratitude on my career, my hope is that each of us continues to elevate, inspire, and promote the profession that has given us so much. Because the future of learning depends on it.

Let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future by championing the next generation of educators together.

Sheryl Abshire is the former Chief Technology Officer for the Calcasieu Parish School System in Lake Charles, Louisiana who serves as an important voice in the profession and a catalyst and champion for the future of public education. She published "The Critical Imperative: Advocacy for Public Education in a Time of Crisis" in the spring 2025 issue of our journal. We are grateful for her continued commitment to education! You can contact her via email here.

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