Being a Veteran and then a teacher.

When veterans are asked to share stories, we often highlight moments of pride, what we learned, or the benefits we gained from our service. I have plenty of stories like that, but today, I want to share one I’ve rarely told anyone outside of my family. This story is important to me because it changed how I viewed my role in the military and continues to shape my approach as a teacher, coach, and father. In the Navy, we often referred to Sailors in lower pay grades (E1–E5) as “kids.” Many were fresh out of high school, and the term “kids” was often used dismissively to describe silly mistakes or minor missteps. About 15 years ago, I met one of these so-called “kids”—a Second or Third Class Builder in the Seabees, around E4 or E5. He had joined after 9/11 and was already a grandfather, well into his 50s. As a 30-something “young pup,” I was surprised, on the verge of calling him a “kid” simply due to rank. In reality, he had life experience far beyond mine. At that moment, I realized how unconstructive the term “kid” could be and resolved never to use it like that again. Fast forward to today, where I’m now a teacher. We often refer to our students as “kids,” and while it’s mostly accurate, the term can sometimes carry a dismissive tone. Instead, I use “student,” a title I believe in. My students teach me as much as I teach them, and in this environment, we’re all learners. I use “student” as a reminder of our commitment to mutual respect, recognizing the roles we each play—Student, Teacher, Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Parent. This mindset, one of shared learning and respect, is one of the many invaluable lessons my 20 years in the Navy taught me.

Jesse A Sherwin III MCC(SCW/AW/SW/SS) USN (Ret.)

WAVA Teacher