Mary Ryan - Snelson Golden Middle School
Originally, I wanted to become a systems analyst in order to make a very comfortable salary. While in high school and during my first two years of college, I worked in a child development center and enjoyed it greatly. I also regularly tutored students, especially in math. It was during this time that I began seriously thinking about the teaching profession. Finally, my husband encouraged me to change my major stating that it was more important to be happy than wealthy.
My greatest accomplishments in education would have to be the successes of my students. For some students that achievement may be passing the course for the year or passing the math portion of the CRCT so they are able to promote to high school. For other students it may be finally making an A on a math test or overcoming a fear of math. Sometimes, just having a student complete their homework, raise their hand to ask a question in class, or come after school for extra help is a triumph.