An explanation, for teaching.

“I got it” was how the cellphone call I just received started. A recent graduate from my program, Police Foundations / Law Enforcement had just called me. Pilar had just been offered a job with the Toronto Police Service.

The closest way I can attempt to describe this feeling, is… have you ever had an occasion where your body tingled from head to toe? Maybe it’s how a pin cushion feels or the joy someone might feel when they hear they just won the lottery. Every time I get a call like this one it reminds me why I am a teacher. After twenty-five years in a law enforcement career, patrolling the streets, in-service training for police officers, an instructor in public colleges and now in a private career college I continue to be inspired by those I am trying to help.

Even though Pilar had lots of experience, like working in a group home for troubled youth, being a foster parent, to serving our country as a reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces, police services, still, turned her down. She had the coveted OACP certificate of results (Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police) required to be hired, and still got rejected.

Her drive, tenacity and willingness to follow and meet the learning objectives in each of the courses. Beginning with the end in mind, to get the job done. Pilar’s story should inspire anyone. Rejection was not part of her vocabulary. She did not give up. Her call not only gave her a new career it validated my career. I was doing what I was called to do. Prepare students so they could pursue their life’s dream. I ask myself: Am I helping them or are they helping me?