January Teacher of the Month | Video

Evan Kruegel | 1/2/2013

There`s never a dull moment in Ms. Thomas`s first grade classroom at Stoney Creek Elementary. "Were always up and down, dancing and singing, doing anything to keep them up and moving."

School District 8 had a 27 percent enrollment increase this year, but Thomas`s class is relatively small. As a first year teacher, this works to her advantage as she`s able to focus on the specific needs of each student.

"It makes it easier for the students too. We work better together when there are less of us, and we don`t have as many issues arise, so it makes it a lot easier than if I had twenty five students,” she said.

Being a teacher at a small school comes with added responsibilities. She arrives more than an hour before class starts and stays at school well after her students head home.

"I do P.E, I do art, the teachers do recess duties. So we have a lot of responsibility, but it`s fun. They`re a great class and they definitely keep me busy."

For her students, coming to school is an enjoyable experience.

"We get to do fun work and lots of activities”, said Dalyn Peterson.

While it`s not an easy job, it`s been a great experience thus far for Ms. Thomas. "I love my job. I work hard at it. It`s my hobby, and it`s my life. I just love it. Everything I do is for these kids."

COMMENT ON THIS STORY