In Mary Beth Evans' classroom, the lessons are creative, engaging and fun. Mrs. Evans teaches third grade at Liberty Elementary in Flower Mound. She's been a teacher for 19 years.
"I do enjoy helping others. I enjoy seeing others when I can finally get it across to them. That 'aha' moment. Even when it comes to helping my own children at home," says Evans.
The Kentucky native comes from a large family. She's the youngest of eight, and the only girl. Now a mother of two children herself, Evans' approach to teaching is to make learning a positive experience.
Third grade is a turning point for many students. These eight and nine-year-olds face the pressure of taking the TAKS test for the first time. And grade school is not what is was 20 years.
"I think our expectations for our students have grown greatly. We've raised the bar for what we expect."
By Kindergarten, kids know how to write a short story. By third grade they get introduced to Algebra in math class.
"Just little things that will get them ready, so they will have seen it. It may not be something they will get tested on at this grade level, but you're putting it out there," Evans says.
No doubt Mrs. Evans' responsibilities are demanding, but she says she wouldn't trade a day of the last two decades.
"I think this is the most rewarding profession. Your working with people, and you are helping them reach their goals," she says.
"I do enjoy helping others. I enjoy seeing others when I can finally get it across to them. That 'aha' moment. Even when it comes to helping my own children at home," says Evans.
The Kentucky native comes from a large family. She's the youngest of eight, and the only girl. Now a mother of two children herself, Evans' approach to teaching is to make learning a positive experience.
Third grade is a turning point for many students. These eight and nine-year-olds face the pressure of taking the TAKS test for the first time. And grade school is not what is was 20 years.
"I think our expectations for our students have grown greatly. We've raised the bar for what we expect."
By Kindergarten, kids know how to write a short story. By third grade they get introduced to Algebra in math class.
"Just little things that will get them ready, so they will have seen it. It may not be something they will get tested on at this grade level, but you're putting it out there," Evans says.
No doubt Mrs. Evans' responsibilities are demanding, but she says she wouldn't trade a day of the last two decades.
"I think this is the most rewarding profession. Your working with people, and you are helping them reach their goals," she says.
