Teacher Appreciation Week: "Driving the struggle bus"

This press release from Representative Brian J. Mast (R-FL) was published on 2026-05-07 and titled "Teacher Appreciation Week: "Driving the struggle bus"". It focuses on taxes and touches on education.

Teacher Appreciation Week: "Driving the struggle bus"

Driving the "Struggle Bus" - A Conversation with Mrs. Eileen Shevak Community in Conversation May 2026 A Calling Teacher Appreciation Week Driving the "Struggle Bus" This ' Teacher Appreciation Week ', I am inspired by educators across the Treasure Coast, whose dedication to seeing our children succeed reminds us that strong students - and communities - are built one teacher at a time. It's the people closest to our children's development: the teachers in the classroom and the families at home, that know best when it comes to what they need to thrive. One of these educators is Mrs. Eileen, a math teacher in Fort Pierce. Following three decades in the classroom, her students recently dedicated their 2025-26 yearbook to her - an honor that speaks volumes about her impact. With thirty years of experience, what follows are reflections from Mrs. Eileen from throughout her career. - Brian Mast I. On the Calling As a ninth grader, I struggled to understand the "why" behind algebraic concepts. I had so many questions that on October 16, 1982, my teacher literally told me: no more questions. I later found out he was actually a history teacher assigned to teach math. Thankfully, my mother, God bless her, recognized my frustration and transferred me to Mrs. Cruz. Within two days, everything clicked. It was as if a light had been turned on. Looking back, I truly believe that was a moment of grace, God placing the right person in my life at exactly the right time. II. On the Classroom Tell us about the "Struggle Bus." It's a mindset I invite every student to embrace the moment they walk into my classroom. The room is designed to be welcoming: positive messages on the walls, flexible seating, a comfortable place to learn. But the philosophy underneath it is simple. Growth requires perseverance, and perseverance builds character. I tell my students to think of a baby learning to walk. He falls again and again before he figures out how to stabilize himself and move forward. Learning math, or learning anything, works the same way. You have to be willing to fail, reflect, and try again until you understand. Thirty Years, One Calling 30 years in the classroom 1996 first year teaching 2025 yearbook dedication 1 student now Superintendent "Trust that there is purpose in the challenge. The struggle in learning is what leads to growth and true understanding." After thirty years, what advice would you offer? Real learning doesn't come from being given the answers. It comes from engaging deeply with the process of discovering them. III. On the Students Mrs. Shevak's yearbook dedication page. Your students dedicated this year's yearbook to you. What did that mean? It is a blessing to be a high school math teacher. My late father always said, find a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life. I am a true testament to that. A Note From Congressman Mast To every teacher across Florida's 21st District giving your students your all week in and week out, thank you. In Congress, I continue to put more decisions in the hands of the people who know our kids best - teachers and parents. - Brian Mast Member of Congress, Florida's 21st District Office of Congressman Brian Mast FL-21 Palm Beach Martin St. Lucie