School and Community Winter 2024

Perspective

Finding Inspiration

BY: PAM LOWE, MSTA PRESIDENT E ducators are often asked, “What made you want to be a teacher?” More often than not, they respond with a smile and share memories of a teacher they encountered who inspired them to follow in their footsteps. In my case, the journey towards becoming a teacher began at a young age, inspired by two remarkable teachers who left an indelible mark on my life. Mrs. Patrice Taylor, my first grade teacher, provided me with my first glimpse at what fun teaching could be. I may have only been six years old, but I remember it as though it were yesterday. As many in the teaching profession can probably relate, I always liked a leadership role. Mrs. Taylor saw that in the little first grade girl sitting in her classroom. She ignited a spark the day she allowed me to create a worksheet for my classmates to complete. Those who have been around as long as me know that back in those days, we had the purple ditto machines. If you know what I’m talking about, I’m sure you also remember the distinct smell. It was then and there, holding a stack of purple-inked pages, that the magic of teaching came alive within me. I knew this was something I could see myself doing in the future. Fast forward to second grade, I had a student teacher by the name of Kathy Brickell whom I admired. I knew when I grew up, I wanted to be just like Mrs. Brickell. She later became a first grade teacher and was also my Girl Scout leader. Much like Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Brickell recognized the aspiring teacher characterics in me and she welcomed me into her classroom to help out on special occasions. This connection endured through the years and, as a senior in high school, I was placed in her classroom as a cadet teacher where I was further inspired by her educational skills and techniques.

I attribute a great deal of my success to these ladies. They were both beacons of inspiration, shaping my path - and a large part of why I became a teacher! I am thankful for the influence they had on my life. What an amazing career it has been. The little girl in Mrs. Taylor’s first grade classroom would be so excited to know that not only would she grow up to spend many successful years in the classroom, but also eventually have the opportunity to serve on the MSTA State Board. Today, I feel blessed that teachers from around the state, whom I have come to admire, encouraged me to run for office. It seems surreal that I have such an amazing opportunity to be an inspiration to not only those considering the teaching profession, but also those currently in the trenches giving it all they’ve got on days when things are really hard. This is my 27th year teaching for Sikeston R-6 Schools. I taught fifth grade my first year (bless you, middle school teachers!) then taught kindergarten for 20 years and am currently in my 6th year teaching preschool. I never could have done this without the support of my family, my school and my district. We all need people to support us through the rough days - someone we can vent to or problem solve with. I hope you have that in whatever capacity you are serving. More than anything, I want to be a listening ear for you if you ever need someone to listen. I am looking forward to a wonderful year as your MSTA President. Thank you for this opportunity. I hope I will make you proud.

4 | WINTER 2024 S&C