It finally happened. I’ll admit I was skeptical. Like a rite of passage in spring, it was annually tossed around as a possibility but then put off and postponed another 12 months with fresh determination. So I wasn’t actually sure she’d go through with it. But as it turns out, 2024 will always serve as a major milestone for our family.
Mom has officially retired from teaching after 42 years in the classroom. She taught every level and layer of junior high and high school math that ever existed, including AP Calculus and other college prep courses. She worked in multiple schools and districts, public and private, in New York, New Hampshire, Ohio and most recently, Texas. Along the way, she served as department chair, designed curricula, integrated new courses and textbooks to meet the needs of her students and mentored other educators. Teaching was never simply a job for Mom; it was her calling and her ministry.
Incredibly, my mother did not go to college to become a teacher. Her degrees were in Geology. She worked on dam projects for years before and after my brother and I came along. In Savannah, Georgia, she was recognized for outstanding service by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for her leadership and direction at the Richard B. Russell Dam site. She loves rocks! And yet she changed career paths when we were little. Mom decided she wanted us to receive a faith-based Christian education. As a single mom with two kiddos, tuition at those schools didn’t fit the budget so she came up with a new plan. She started teaching.
Mom was MY math teacher in high school. And I’ll be honest, I didn’t always dig the idea. We clashed a few times, especially when it seemed like she was harder on me than anyone else. True story: Mom gave me seven of my eight detentions in high school…all for talking during class! We love to share that memory with people.😂 Looking back now, I am grateful for those years in her classroom. As a teacher, she was organized, practical, fair, accessible, empathetic, committed and funny. Her approach to teaching was both calculated (of course) and creative. She would do just about anything to help a student grasp the concepts, including extra help outside of school and opportunities to make up homework or exams that weren’t completed correctly the first time.
Even more than her fondness for equations, Mom always demonstrated warmth and devotion toward her students. She went the extra mile to answer their questions, find unique ways to explain theories, encourage them to use critical thinking and adapt to their various needs. When I observed her classes, I was always amazed by how she connected with teenagers. They LOVED her! I’m pretty sure it’s because she was honest and open, a straight shooter. She outlined her expectations, set boundaries, treated them with respect and didn’t put up with their nonsense, ha.
Mom always taught me to show up. To show people you care, you show up! Over the years, I watched her support her kids in their other endeavors: basketball, volleyball and baseball games, pep rallies, fundraisers, awards ceremonies, graduations and every kind of special event. She prayed for them and shared her wisdom and experience and humor. And for those students with whom she had a special connection, she also served as mentor and role model, and eventually, friend.❤️
Periodically, I still hear from former high school classmates who claim Mom as their favorite teacher. OR they understand now that she was tough on them because she recognized their potential and refused to let them settle. She NEVER gave up on a student, not as long as she had the chance to make a difference. Mom is gifted in connecting with people of all ages; but I am most inspired by the relationships she formed with a pair of extremely smart, talented, determined brothers who would rather avoid social situations and group interaction. Mom never treated them differently; she worked hard to communicate with them and encourage their dreams. And her investment and impact in their lives cannot be overstated. Today, they are flourishing, and they value her enough to keep in touch.
When the principal at her high school took away her upper-level math classes, both students and fellow faculty members appealed to him. They explained why they appreciated Mom and needed her. Despite their endorsements and pleas, this principal told Mom her classes were “too hard” and her methods weren’t progressive enough. Instead of seeing her unique worth through the eyes of the students, he wants “culturally aware” educators who agree to give very little homework (if any) and make class as easy as possible. Then parents won’t complain and take their students and tuition dollars elsewhere. One day, I hope he acknowledges his mistake.
Mom had been contemplating retirement for the last 5 years. This was ultimately her decision, though I believe she deserved better. She attended graduation but packed up her room with her husband when no one else was around. Like most teachers, she didn’t exit to fanfare; and while she would never seek the attention, she is worthy of recognition for her decades of dedication. My tribute may be limited, but I’m writing with a heart full of admiration, pride and love. She is my amazing momma and one of the best teachers on the planet!
Mom, I could take another dozen paragraphs to share stories about your impact in the classroom. I could list all the talents, skills and abilities that made you perfect for teaching. But the highest praise I can give is that I want to teach just like you. Both firm and kind, disciplined and compassionate–you were always professional with a personal touch. Whether it’s my 4th and 5th graders on Sundays or my broadcasting students at Syracuse, I strive to follow your example. And I know this makes you laugh since I used to reject any thought of teaching. Now look at me! I love you, Mom, and I couldn’t be prouder of you.
On behalf of countless students and teachers and administrators over the last 42 years, THANK YOU for your diligence and zeal and tireless service! Congratulations on your remarkable career.❤️
Play by Play Day by Day with Amy Lawrence 