By Aubrey Kraly, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- We never learn much about our teachers’ personal lives but behind the desk there’s much to learn about Pam Dick. Dick has been teaching since 2005, which is 21 years of lessons, students, and a lot of grading. Dick currently teaches third grade at Huntington Elementary. She almost didn’t become a teacher at all.
Before becoming a teacher, Dick went to the University of Toledo. She wanted to be a nurse, but her mom talked her out of it. Steered away from nursing, Dick later took an interest in teaching.
Being a teacher also means having a lot to keep track of. Dick knows this, and manages her time by staying organized and being careful not to forget anything. She writes everything down on her calendar and sticks to a “this will happen on this day and write it down” perspective.
Even after 21 years, Dick said she “enjoys seeing students use what she has taught them in everyday lives.” She is inspired by seeing her students apply her teachings to everyday life. This shows that teaching is not just about what students learn for a test. She wants them to be able to use what they learn outside of school too.
There is a lot more to being a great teacher than what we see from the classroom. Dick is important to many staff members and students and she has touched the lives of many in her years of teaching. Past the challenges all teachers face, Dick continues to support her students and the community.
Aubrey Kraly, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Dick with students.