How Educators Make a Lasting Difference: Creating Opportunities That Inspire Students to Succeed

Inspiring Stories of Teachers, Coaches, and Students Who Change Lives

We all want to make a difference for our community and our children. That’s why we teach, lead, and coach—be that in the classroom, on the stage, or on the field.

As educators, we create opportunities for our kids to explore their creativity, challenge themselves, and discover new passions. 

We encourage them with “Yes, you can!” and “Keep going, you’re doing great!” as they learn to self-regulate, break through their glass ceilings, and gain confidence.

And it is in those moments- you make a difference. Let's emphasize that point:  

You DO make a difference!

Creating Opportunities is Making a Difference

When you open new doors for students, you help them find confidence, curiosity, and courage.

“The average child in our nation spends about 6.64 hours at school, every day for 180 days a year.” 

That means children spend nearly half of each calendar year with educators. This time gives teachers and coaches countless opportunities to create meaningful moments - ones that help kids discover their strengths, interests, and goals.

For this reason, you are one of the people who have the opportunity to open new doors for our kids. 

To create new environments, help them experience new territories, and encourage growth, where they are, they can succeed and overcome challenges.

🏃‍♂️ A Real-Life Story: How Opportunity Changed Nathan Martin’s Life

Meet Nathan Martin, a local hero from Jackson, Michigan. You may not know that Nathan has some remarkable achievements.

In 2020, Nathan finished the Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona, with a time of 2:11:05. Not only did he improve on his 2:14:34 personal best at the COVID-adjusted race, but he was also named the fastest U.S.-born African American marathoner in history. 

He later placed eighth in the New York City Marathon, proving his dedication and perseverance. But Nathan's story isn't just about records. It's about opportunity.

"The outreach of people congratulating me or saying how awesome they thought it was that I broke the record, I'm like, WOW, maybe I'm not thinking about things correctly. Maybe I need to really figure out what this record means to me," Martin told Runner's World. 

"Being able to use the record to impact kids or give somebody someone to look at and say, 'Hey, he's achieved that. I can too, was really awesome. Hopefully, I can continue to be someone who can inspire people.' Martin told Runner's World."

🏫 How a Coach’s Encouragement Changed Everything

Nathan's journey started in middle school when a teacher noticed his potential. After a required timed mile run, a coach suggested that Nathan join the cross-country team - and that single moment changed the trajectory of Nathan's life. 

Every teacher and coach has this same power. A small encouragement, a simple "You'd be great at this!" can open a lifelong passion. 

This is the kind of thing coaches do every day at school. Teachers of all stripes encourage children to pursue or try something they show some interest and aptitude for. That simple comment made a difference in the trajectory of Nathan’s life.

Blessed by the opportunities running has provided for him. Nathan now uses that same influence as a coach and substitute teacher in Jackson District Schools.  You might think that winning the Olympics would be his biggest goal, but his greatest desire is to help the kids he coaches at the local high school become better runners and better people. 

His compassion, leadership, and humility inspire his students to not only run faster but also believe in themselves. 

💡 The Ripple Effect: How One Educator Inspires Many

Nathan's story is a reminder of the ripple effect educators have. His influence as a teacher and mentor is shaping future leaders, runners, and dreamers in his community. 

His students - and the parents and administrators watching - see his impact daily. Even if we can't measure the full extent of his influence, we can feel it.

His knowledge and skills make him an inspiration to his team and a great resource.  His attitude, compassion, and empathy make him a leader that kids want to follow.  

Each time you encourage a child to take a chance or try something new, you can change their world - sometimes in ways you'll never fully see.

You Make a Difference Every Day

Nathan’s story reminds us of the power of connection, care, and opportunity. As an educator or coach, you give kids more than lessons - you give them belief, belonging, and confidence. 

Each time you create a new opportunity, whether it's through a reading program, a running club like Mileage Club, or a classroom goal, you're empowering kids to grow stronger and dream bigger.

So keep inspiring. Keep encouraging. Keep opening those doors. Because you are making a difference.

Who can measure the value of creating a new friend, finding a special interest, or overcoming fear by trying something that seems difficult?  The opportunity to grow is presented daily.