Hamilton named Poplar Bluff teacher of the year

The Poplar Bluff School District Teacher of the Year is a priceless asset to families, according to parents. She gives children in her class confidence, students say.

These are just two of the reasons Lake Road Elementary third-grade instructor Pam Hamilton received the district's highest honor during a ceremony Thursday at the Central Office. Hamilton is also the Lake Road Elementary Teacher of the Year.

"Mrs. Hamilton is a walking, breathing educator in all aspects of her life, both professional and personal," said Lake Road Principal Brenda Allen.

Allen spoke of new concepts Hamilton has developed that benefit her students and colleagues. Hamilton helped create "Open Range Reading," a Reading First model that uses authentic products, differentiation for student needs and experiences in various styles of learning.

"This model was deemed so innovative and productive that Pam and her grade level colleagues were commissioned by the Southeast Reading First staff to deliver the message throughout the district," Allen said.

Hamilton also developed and implemented a committee for non-tenured staff that helps teachers learn more about topics such as classroom management, discipline and current concerns.

"She is always looking for that next great idea," Allen said. "She is never satisfied."

Hamilton has 21 years experience in education and has also taught second, fourth and fifth grades. She holds a Master's degree in education and currently teaches a class for Hannibal-LaGrange College, in addition to third grade.

Each new grade level comes with its own challenges and she enjoys that, Hamilton said. The new positions also offers the opportunity to work with and learn from new people, she continued

"(The change) helps you rethink everything you do and look for new strategies," Hamilton said, adding she has worked with many wonderful teachers.

Yet, children are children no matter where she works, Hamilton said.

Hamilton loves that no day is ever the same in her work.

"Everyday something happens that I've never had happen before," she explained. "What other job are you surrounded by kids who tell you they love you? What other job do you get to change the world everyday?"

Hamilton is a new teacher mentor and works with student teachers.

New teachers too often leave the field after a few years, according to Hamilton. She would like to do more work that encourages these people to stay in education, Hamilton said.

"I hope I can help influence them to stick around," she said. "New teachers have new ideas. We can learn from them. That is what's great about teaching."