TEACHER'S CORNER: RIEHL ENJOYS LOVE THAT CHILDREN GIVE TO THEIR TEACHERS

Susan Riehl feels that children are "so loving, so giving" at the primary level.

"This unconditional love makes every day in the classroom a joy," Riehl said.

She teaches first-grade students at Washington Elementary School where she has taught for the past three years.

A graduate of Notre Dame High School, Riehl received both bachelor's and master's degrees in elementary education from Southeast Missouri State University.

Prior to coming to Washington School, she taught for six years in the Perry County School District and two years at New Madrid.

Riehl feels that teachers hold a very important position.

"Knowing that I have helped my students to achieve a positive self-image," she said, "a desire to learn and have given them a chance for a successful future, makes me feel that I have one of the most important jobs in our society today."

Riehl followed in her mother's footsteps in choosing the teaching profession.

"Also, the love of children and the desire to help others influenced my decision to become a teacher," she said.

One new program at Washington School that she likes is when her class either reads to or listens to others read in fourth grade.

"Both groups benefit," she said.

"Oral reading and listening skills are improved, as well as new friendships developed, self concepts boosted and a desire to read fostered."

Riehl remembers the recent week of MMAT testing.

"It was stressed to the children how important it was to do their best and maintain complete silence for concentration purposes," she said.

"On the third day of the test, a student became ill. So we took a break, had recess and then resumed testing.

"It wasn't long before another student had a nose bleed that would not stop.

"Needless to say, the concentration was broken twice and the serious atmosphere lost."

Riehl's husband, Mark, is employed at Hutson Furniture. They have a son, Luke, 5.

In her spare time, Riehl enjoys arts and crafts, refinishing antique furniture, camping, yard work, wallpapering and spending time with her family.