'Really, all this stuff you learn is probably not that important'
"What is important is the life skills you learn while completing the tasks in class.
"You learn how to argue effectively and communicate with different types of people. You learn how to listen to others and respond respectfully. You learn so much that you don't even realize because it seems disguised by homework and essays. But really, you are learning to be independent adults more than you know."
'Don't waste this opportunity'
"Please just know that I love teaching and I sincerely want to help you. But I can't help you if you don't put in the effort. I chose this job because I'm passionate and hardworking and I know my s---, and I will help you get to where you need to be. But you need to meet me halfway.
"It's so frustrating because education opens so many doors, and people around the world would kill to have this educational opportunity. Malala was shot in the freaking head for it. And you're just throwing it all away, and that makes me want to tear my hair out."
'You are not your test scores'
"All the standardized testing we do is so insignificant to who you will become."
'Don't sweat the small stuff'
"Your elementary years won't have a tremendous impact on your academic, professional, or personal paths. I wish you could just enjo
'There are only so many spots at Harvard'
"Not all of you are going to an Ivy League school after you graduate."
'Learning won't always be fun'
"I know some of the things I have to teach and you have to learn are boring."
'I respect you and wish you the best'
"I know that you are an individual with your own perspective and problems even though you're only a teen."
'If you don't work hard, you aren't going to get any better'
"Parents and students often come to school thinking that it is the teacher's job to help you get smart — you are right. I can only help. Actual learning can only happen by the students themselves. "
'Don't worry about testing'
"It's all bulls---. Just have fun, always be kind to those around you, and be true to yourself."