Gordon
Submitted photo
This year marked 30 years of working in education for second grade teacher Amy Gordon.
Of those three decades, two have been spent teaching at Sprunica Elementary School. This year also marked Gordon’s retirement from the profession.
Though she’s retiring from second grade, she’s taught it all — from special education to general education to being responsible for the “science” curriculum in the STEAM (science, technology, electronics, art and mathematics) model for all grades at Sprunica.
“I absolutely love teaching at any grade level. Each grade has its own special identity with characteristics that make it fun for learning,” she said.
Gordon’s mother was a teacher as a second career and taught for 15 years, as well as other family members in Gordon’s family.
“There are several teachers in my family so it can be a smorgasbord of stories, ideas and laughter when we get together,” she said.
Her favorite part of teaching has been facilitating learning for the students, allowing them to make discoveries and connections in their learning.
But what will she remember the most about her career? The collaboration and comradery at Sprunica.
Q: Where did you all teach in Brown County Schools? What did you teach? Have you always taught in Brown County? If not, where else and what brought you to Brown County?
A: This year marked my 30th year in education, 20 of those years have been spent with Brown County Schools at Sprunica Elementary. Mr. Killinger was at Sprunica when I began teaching at Sprunica Elementary.
Q: Have you always been a science teacher? If so, what has kept you working as a science teacher?
A: I have taught in the area of special education in grades three, four, five and six then general education in grades one, two and four and science STEAM for kindergarten up through fifth grade. I previously taught 10 years at Indian Creek Schools. I am dual licensed in elementary education and special education. I earned my bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Ball State University and my special education licensure at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis.
Q: What made you decide to be a teacher?
A: I decided to become a teacher because of the joy of seeing children learn and the connections that can be made. My mother became a teacher as a second career and taught for 15 years. I have learned so much from her.
Q: How would you describe your time at Brown County Schools?
A: My favorite part of teaching was facilitating learning for students. Allowing students to discover and make connections in their own learning in a structured environment is vital in a child’s journey. I would have to say the least favorite part of my job was the paperwork. My joy was “getting in” with the kiddos as we were discovering science concepts. It was so much fun! We are fortunate to be able to do a Project Lead the Way Launch curriculum along with Mystery Science curriculum in our Brown County elementary schools, which allowed me to have hands-on problem solving learning going on in the science lab at Sprunica.
Q: What will you remember most about teaching?
A: What I will remember most about teaching is the collaboration and comradery at Sprunica Elementary. It is key to our students being successful. Our staff is a cohesive family where everyone puts forth 110% for our students to reach their personal best. I was so blessed to be a part of such an outstanding group of dedicated people. Our SES family is strong because of our dedicated leader, Mr. Shane Killinger. His support is so appreciated. He truly is a hands-on principal. Frequently he will come in with the children to be a part of our classrooms, the lab, lunchroom and recess. Mr. Killinger has supported me in my role as a teacher 100%! This SES family and my faith in the Lord kept me in teaching. God is my source and it is His ability in me that keeps me going each day. My family — husband of 32 years, daughters, son-in-law and grandchildren — are so supportive in my career. My family has spent countless hours of running to get needed supplies, setting up classrooms and making my ideas come to fruition. I am so grateful for each one of them.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about retirement? Do you have any big plans?
A: Besides teaching at school, I am the children’s church director at Franklin First Assembly of God. Being able to be a part of a team of dedicated believers pouring into our kiddos is such a privilege. The Holy Spirit guides each step of the way. I guess I am always teaching wherever I go from school, to church and other ministries. Teaching is truly my passion! Also, I love to cook, read and swim. I am looking forward to spending more time with my family as I will get to watch two of our grandchildren starting in the fall.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a new teacher?
A: When asked what piece of advice I’d give to a new teacher I would have to say give yourself the opportunity to learn! Education is a journey not just a chapter in a book. Take your time to enjoy each moment!
