A letter from today’s teacher, Nellis, to yesterday’s teacher, Nellis

By Nellis Pompeo*

A letter from today’s teacher, Nellis, to yesterday’s teacher, Nellis

Dear Professor Nellis,

Today, when I look back, I feel like hugging you and saying: Take a deep breath, because the journey will be long and challenging, but incredibly meaningful. Do you remember Colégio São José, run by Santa Casa de Misericórdia and the Sisters of São José? Since you were a classroom assistant while studying teaching by choice, full of dreams and enthusiasm? Well, know that the faces of these little children, which you carry so lovingly in your memory, are now about 38 years old. Many are parents, but for me, they are still those little ones I taught, with curious eyes and shy smiles.

Today, after more than 35 years of working at the school, I can say that I have experienced moments of intense joy, tremendous challenges, and constant transformation. When I started, there was no Internet, and research was done in encyclopedias. There were not as many technological resources as there are today: copy machines, vinyl records with a turntable for listening to children’s stories, Slides On the wall they were part of everyday life. Integration only exists in specialist schools, legislation will change a lot over time, and frankly, we are not as sick as we are today. Families were more respected, and the profession seemed simpler. But make no mistake: simplicity never lasts.

You will find that the sparkle in your eyes will be experienced. The kind teacher I was, full of dreams, would become a unionist, not by choice, but because the reality of the public school land would require constant struggle. There will be no other choice: either fight or fight. My struggle has earned me the title Neliça Rebelde, perhaps because education nowadays is in itself an act of rebellion.

Being a teacher means discovering the world and yourself every day. We are like butterflies in constant transformation, learning, reinventing ourselves and acquiring colors we never imagined. Only when you take charge of your own classroom, after passing the test, will you truly understand the importance, beauty and responsibility of education. Even in the most difficult moments, there will be angels who will guide you and not allow you to give up.

Neless last, don’t be afraid to change yourself. Learn how to welcome challenges as opportunities. Keep your love for your students in your heart, even when you get tired, even when you feel like the world doesn’t recognize your value. Remember the words of Paulo Freire: Teaching requires courage, love and dialogue. Every effort, every battle, every tear and every smile will have meaning.

Always thank those who came before you and prepare to pave the way for those who come. Education is the bridge that connects generations, and you will be there steadily and leave your mark.

With all love, wisdom and gratitude