TEACHER'S CORNER: MUSIC TEACHER WANTS TO MAKE DIFFERENCE

Gennice Gipson, music teacher at May Greene Elementary School in Cape Girardeau, became a teacher in hopes of helping others and making a difference in the world.

Imagine her surprise when she learned what an impact she had made on one kindergarten student. The youngster wanted to express his admiration, and said, "Mrs. Gipson, you have some nice dress shoes on today."

Whatever the impact, Gipson said she enjoys teaching.

"In music class, one can allow for creativity and the use of multiple intelligences to enhance the process of learning," she said.

"I became a teacher because I have a love for people and working with them," she said. "Teaching is more or less a tradition in my family. I began teaching at an early age in my church and my community."

Gipson has been teaching 19 years. She has an undergraduate degree from Memphis State University and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. She has also completed extra coursework at Southeast Missouri State University.

She is involved in P.A.T.S., Parent Advisory Board, is a volunteer worker for the Food Harvest and a nursing home. She is also pianist for her church, choir director, Sunday school teacher and a piano teacher.

"I have no particular hobbies because I enjoy lots of things," she said. She lists reading, sewing, cooking, singing, playing the piano, walking and traveling.

She is married to Robert E. Gipson and has four children.

"I have always felt if I could help somebody as I pass along then my living shall not be in vain," she said.