Beyond the Classroom: Why Showing Up Matters
As a kindergarten teacher, I spend a lot of time talking about letters, numbers, and social
skills—but if I’m being honest, the real foundation of everything I do is relationships. The kind
that go beyond classroom walls. The kind that say, “I see you. I care about you. You matter to
me.”
“The real foundation of everything I do is relationships”
Ms. Beam
Recently, I had the joy of attending a Saturday evening dance recital—not just to support one of
my current students, but three former students who were also performing that night. Four
beautiful little hearts that I’ve had the privilege of teaching. And let me tell you, the look on their
faces when they saw me in the audience? That moment alone made everything worth it.
If all I ever had to give was my time, I’d give it again and again. Because showing up matters.
The Power of Showing Up
When you take time to be present for your students outside of school—whether it’s a recital, a
soccer game, a church program, or even just a birthday party—you’re giving them something
that can’t be measured by test scores or report cards: belonging. It’s that sense of, “My teacher really
knows me. My teacher cares about who I am, not just what I can do.”
For students, that kind of buy-in is powerful. It builds trust. It builds safety. And when children
feel emotionally safe and seen, they learn better. They try harder. They open up more. I’ve
watched shy students find their voice, frustrated learners keep pushing, and anxious hearts start
to settle—all because they knew I’d show up for them, even when I didn’t have to.
What Parents Feel
Parents feel it too. They feel the partnership, the shared investment, the village. They realize
their child’s teacher is not just doing a job—but choosing love, community, and connection. And
when parents feel seen and supported, the home-school relationship becomes a real
collaboration. Suddenly, we’re not just talking about homework—we’re talking about hopes,
dreams, and how to walk this journey together.
What It Does For Me
And honestly? It fills me up too. It reminds me why I do what I do. When I see those eyes light up, when I
hear that surprised “Ms. Stephens?!” from across the auditorium, when I get a hug that says “thank you for
being here”—my heart is full. It’s a joy I can’t quite explain, but I carry it back into the classroom with me on
Monday morning, and it changes everything.
The Ripple Effect
Showing up outside of school doesn’t just create feel-good moments. It boosts:
● Academic Confidence: Students are more likely to take risks and persevere in class
when they know you’re in their corner.
● Social Growth: Kids thrive in relationships where they feel seen and celebrated for who
they are beyond academics.
● Emotional Well-being: That sense of connection builds resilience and a stronger sense
of self.
● Classroom Culture: The vibe shifts. We’re not just a class—we’re a community.
So yes, it was a Saturday night. Yes, I could have stayed home. But I’m so glad I didn’t.
Because when I show up for my students, I’m not just teaching them how to read—I’m teaching
them what it means to be valued, supported, and loved. And if time is all I have to give, I’ll keep
giving it—with my whole heart.