Living Out My Calling

By Casey Ainsworth, an MHS Middle Division Teacher

Teaching is a calling. Anyone who has worked in the education field will agree. Teaching at Milton Hershey School is a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns that can be unpredictable. That’s why I love it.

People always comment on how incredible our facilities and resources are, but I have to remind them that our kids are the icing on the cake. They are the best.

I’ve been fortunate to teach and coach some of the funniest, outgoing, compassionate, intelligent, talented, and downright incredible kids. Even on my worst days, I leave school with a comment or experience that leaves a smile on my face.

Although I teach middle school students, I feel it’s important to maintain these meaningful connections with students and stay in touch with them as they move up to high school and beyond. From sending emails and planning day visits to attending sporting events, visual and performing arts performances, and grabbing lunch with them at college, there are so many opportunities to keep the lines of communication open.

Growing up, I was blessed to have a network of friends and family members who were always there to support me. They taught me so much, but most importantly, they taught me life is not meant to be done alone. It’s important to pass that lesson on to our students.

They need to have a network of people on campus who are there to give advice and be their cheerleaders. The more people in their corner, the better.

The people I work with at Catherine Hall are incredible at staying in touch with our kids and going out of their way to do wonderful things for current students and graduates. We love what we do because our kids are so worth it.