By Alayna Yerian, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- What professions did you want to be when you wanted to grow up? Firefighter? Police officer? Veterinarian? What about a teacher? There are all different professions that take bravery or encouragement.
A teacher who embodies these traits is Samantha Roth, who teaches fifth grade at Memorial Elementary in Brunswick, Ohio. I had the pleasure in knowing and learning from Mrs. Roth as she was my fifth-grade teacher while I attended school there.
Roth has been teaching fifth grade for the past 13 years at Memorial Elementary School. Originally, she did her student teaching in the Kindergarten classroom and thought that's where she would continue her teaching career. Little did she know, Roth began teaching fifth grade students. While she was a little nervous at first, gradually she realized that she loved her fifth graders even more. Over the years, she continues to build special relationships with her students.
Throughout Roth's education, she was impacted by teachers that had safe, encouraging and engaging classroom environments. She stated these experiences influenced her passion for learning and creating similar classroom spaces for her students. As a former student, I can testify that Roth's classroom brought a very positive, calming, and safe environment. I always felt that I could talk to her if I needed help or guidance.
What is the hardest part of being a teacher? Roth explained that, as she became a mother of two, it was hard to return to the classroom and balance being a mom and teacher at times. She loves being a mom and a teacher. Roth is also an alumni to the Brunswick City Schools, which makes her extra special to the teacher community.
As a fun fact, Roth enjoys event planning in her spare time. She must be exceptional in this role, as she makes every day in the classroom a fun and memorable event.
Alayna Yerian, 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: Roth (far right) with fellow teachers; Roth with her class.