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| Built in 1917, I think, after country schools could no longer handle the growing numbers of High School students. It became an elementary school when a new high school was completed in the county seat. |
An elementary school located in small rural areas during the 1950s were a toss-up when it came to teachers. Many elements affected quality and availability.
Teachers were often women during the 1940s who simply took a tests, demonstrating intelligence and understanding of teaching requirements. After WW2 ended, some of these women returned home. Others were of retirement ages anyway, they stayed for money's sake, but were required to upgrade teaching skills annually. Some were good and caring, but others rode broomsticks to school.
Our third grade class was blessed with one of a few very few special teachers: Mrs. Mary Ellen Willard. Unusual in many ways, Mrs. Willard was well-educated, had a teacher credential, and much experience. Following our class, she taught for thirty-one years, mainly in our small rural town.
Of the class of 15 students, there were three of us who whizzed through an entire year's curriculum in the first six weeks. What to do with Scott, Patty, and me? So, what to do with we three?
Mrs. Willard, now I recognize in looking back, let us pursue our creative instincts. She required spelling tests and math tests, but cut the string, basically and silently gave permission to have at it.
Such set up a life-time of learning! Think of all the other bright students who benefited with her approach to teaching!
May God bless Mrs. Willard and all other teachers who share her love for learning.
Having at it is a great way to learn. Had a few teachers like that.
ReplyDeleteWe all were so creative and motivated.
DeleteWhat a lovely memory.
ReplyDeleteEven now I picture Mrs. Willard's smile.
DeleteI remember a few teachers like that, one in primary school, two in high school.Learning is always a joy when the teacher enjoys teaching.
ReplyDeleteSo very true!
DeleteI think I would have loved your Mrs. Willard - as they say you never forget a good teacher and I have been lucky to have known many - both as a child and a teacher :)
ReplyDeletePempi
Special Teaching at Pempi’s Palace
Same here--I taught for 20 years.
DeleteMy teachers were nuns and discipline ruled. We had 50+ kids in each class and somehow we learned. However, there was little room for compassion or how the strictness was affecting those who had learning difficulties.
ReplyDeleteMy brother was one of the boys placed in the back of the room, with all others with learning disabilities. He never forgot the last of interest in his learning.
DeleteMay God bless all the teachers who inspire imagination, the love of learning and a desire to excel.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless them and keep them!
DeleteEven at my present ancient age I still remember all my teachers...from primary school through to high school.
ReplyDeleteTeachers play a most important role in the lives of children.
A good teacher can make a student's approach to learning. A bad teacher can kill it.
DeleteA lovely post. Teachers are so important. My 5th grade teacher Mrs Holmes gave me the gift of books and how they could transport you far away. I always think of her.
ReplyDeleteThe gift of books is truly a gift for a lifetime!
DeleteThere still are great teachers, but they aren't paid enough for the hard work they put in.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely. A good teacher does not become one for the money, but for love of teaching and learning.
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