Today is the day for the 2014 Great American Teach-In. Thousands of people from all walks of life will flock to schools in the region to share their stories of jobs and hobbies, to remind kids that education is what helps you get the job you want.
Of course, not all of them will be wearing a cool uniform, or flying a helicopter or driving a fire truck.
Steve Hegarty, a spokesman for Hillsborough County Schools, said the military will be involved, as well as other volunteers who want to share the message that education is important. He said the Great American Teach-In started in Hillsborough County more than 20 years ago. It was started by SERVE, The Hillsborough Education Association, PTAs, business leaders and teachers.
Some of today's speakers will be telling stories, like I will. I'll talk about how I wanted to be a lawyer or a dentist, but ultimately followed the footsteps of my dad, Martin Giles, into radio.
My dad always fostered the curiosity of my siblings and me. He encouraged us to read everyday, even having us read aloud at family gatherings. And writing was a family art form. Writing letters to Grandma was a common thing for us, as well as thank you notes and other correspondence.
And I have to say my dad had a profound effect on my career choice, because he took me to work long before there was a "Take Your Daughters to Work Day."
