One virtue that separates America from the rest of the world is our commitment to public education for all.

Education always has been the great equalizer between rich and poor, black and white. And whether you went to a rich school in the hills or a poor school in the ghetto, you still have a chance.

Working in those schools is a group of people we call teachers. They shape the minds and nurture the dreams of those they see every day. I know firsthand how important teachers are – because they tell a child “Yes you can” and “I will help.”

I still remember my fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Wallace. She taught me how to write. I also remember my 12th-grade teacher who told me I wasn’t good enough. They both had an impact on my life. One teacher I believed, the other I didn’t.

I have been involved with schools for years, whether it be as a critic or as a volunteer. I believe the vast majority of teachers care and are competent, and take their awesome responsibility with love and humility.

On Jan. 20, I was at my daughter’s fourth-grade classroom at Rainier View Elementary School in Federal Way.

I saw how all those eyes were watching President Barack Obama being sworn-in. I also saw how they looked toward Chris Thomas, their teacher, for direction and even validation. I watched Mr. Thomas with a critical eye because, after all, he is my daughter’s teacher.

I first met Mr. Thomas in September. I saw that he really engaged parents, which I liked. Because as we all know, some teachers just endure parents. Some of them quietly want parents to leave so that they can begin the business of education.

But he is different. I saw that he treated all parents with dignity and respect – irrespective of color. I watched in amazement the looks of all those children, bright-eyed, eager to learn, eager to please as only a child can. I then saw Mr. Thomas answer those pleas with a “Yes you can” and “I will help you.”

I’ve been critical of some teachers and administrators when I thought it was appropriate. But not for one moment did I ever doubt the commitment or belief in these children.

My experience has been that some people are born teachers, and some people develop into good teachers.

The most important thing that makes a good teacher is loving these children. Mr. Thomas is a very good teacher, but he is not unique as a teacher, whether you live in Bellevue, Kent, Auburn or even Africa. The one thing that’s consistent is the love Mr. Thomas and other teachers have for these children.

Our society demands a great deal from teachers, often too much. We expect them to be baby-sitters and social workers – often all before lunch.

To all the teachers who care: Thank you from a grateful parent. I realize that you toil in relative obscurity, but I have seen firsthand the magic that you possess when you say “Yes you can” and “I will help.”

No excuses.

Federal Way resident Walter Backstrom: wkbackstrom@aim.com