TEACHER'S CORNER: INSTRUCTOR STRESSES THE DESIRE TO LEARN

What is it that motivates Carol Bumgardaner?

"Teaching motivates me," she said, "and my job includes motivating my students."

Bumgardaner teaches kindergarten through 12th-grade physical education and health education at Chaffee R-2 schools.

"Feeling of personal worth and a desire to learn has to be instilled in each student," she said.

"Today, students crave structure in their lives, a stable and secure environment, and a classroom that is both relaxed and exciting.

"My job is to bring vitality to avoid staleness."

Bumgardaner is completing her 25th year of teaching, starting at Scott County Central with the last 22 years at Chaffee.

She received a bachelor's degree in education with a major in physical education, health and recreation from Southeast Missouri State University.

"I've always enjoyed the school environment," she said, "and I realize how lives can be guided by the educator.

"Interaction between the teacher and student has to be present.

"Attitudes need to be altered and self-discipline has to be developed. Education does not start or continue without discipline."

"Teachers welcome supportive parents and a community that gets involved in the education of its children," she said.

"Attitudes concerning learning begin at home, and schools can only get better when there is positive reinforcement present."

As for staying in the Chaffee school system for 22 years, she said, "It's a good system.

"The staff here is dedicated, the community is supportive and my students work.

"It is a challenge as I take that eager and receptive 5-year-old and guide them through their school experiences without that enthusiasm eluding them.

"I realize the extent of my responsibilities, and I teach with this in mind."

Bumgardaner and her husband, Gary Wayne, live in Perkins. They have two sons: Scott, a conservation agent, and Chris, a college student.

Her hobbies include gardening and camping.

She serves as a cooperating teacher with Southeast Missouri State University, supervising 14 student teachers.