English Teacher Mrs. Angela Johnson Says “Every Student Has Potential”

A HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER SHARES THE CHALLENGES, REWARDS, AND LASTING IMPACT OF HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEED BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM.

*LaRiah Cole was a student in the College Now Introduction to Journalism class at the City College of New York.

When students walk into a classroom, they usually see a teacher all ready to begin the lesson. What many students don’t see is the time, effort, and dedication they put in before and after the school day ends. Mrs. Angela Johnson, a high school English teacher, says teaching is more than giving assignments and grading papers. It is a career that requires patience, compassion, and a commitment to helping students succeed.

Mrs. Johnson says her biggest motivation is watching students grow throughout the year. “Every student has potential,” she says. “Sometimes all they need is someone who believes in them and encourages them to keep going.” Mrs. Johnson isn’t just focused on teaching academics. She wants to help students build confidence, develop life skills, and believe in themselves.

Although teaching is rewarding, it also comes with many challenges. Teachers must prepare lesson plans, grade assignments, attend meetings, and support students who may be dealing with personal or academic struggles. They are expected to meet the needs of students with different learning styles while creating a positive classroom environment. Balancing all of these responsibilities can be stressful, but many teachers, like Mrs. Johnson, continue because they care deeply about their students’ futures.

Mrs. Johnson explains that one of the hardest parts of her job is making sure every student feels included and supported. “Some students need extra encouragement,” she adds. “I want every student to know that they matter and that they are capable of achieving their goals.”

Mrs. Johnson’s experience reflects a larger issue facing schools across the country. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)⁠, many public schools continue to report difficulty filling teaching positions, especially in high-need subject areas, and many schools continue to feel understaffed. In addition, the National Education Association (NEA) educator burnout survey⁠ found that teacher burnout, increased workloads, and stress remain major concerns for educators. These findings show that while teachers face growing demands, many remain dedicated because they want to make a positive difference in students’ lives. 

Despite the challenges, teachers often say the rewards make the job worthwhile. Mrs. Johnson shared that one of her proudest moments is when former students return to tell her they graduated, started college, or found successful careers. Knowing she played a small role in their journey reminds her why she chose to become a teacher.

Stories like Mrs. Johnson’s help people understand that teachers do much more than teach lessons. They serve as mentors, role models, and trusted adults who help shape students’ futures. 

Mrs. Johnson hopes students remember one thing long after they leave her classroom: “Believe in yourself, work hard, and never be afraid to ask for help. If you keep trying, you can accomplish more than you ever imagined.”