Mary Margaret Massengale, whose mother and grandfather were both educators, knew from a young age that she wanted to be a teacher. Her love for being around children grew out of her babysitting experiences while in middle school.
Massengale鈥檚 peers affirmed her dedication to teaching and her love for children when she was named Teacher of the Year at Concord Elementary School.
A graduate of the 91福利社 College of Education, Massengale received her bachelor鈥檚 degree in elementary education in 2016 and her master of education degree in 2020.
Wanting to be part of 91福利社 came natural for Massengale. Her older sister and twin brother attended Anderson, as did her great aunt and great uncle. Her mother, Patricia Massengale, is a member of the College of Education faculty at Anderson.
鈥淚 feel like Anderson really gave me an insight and encouraged me to love my students, not just teach my students materials,鈥� said Massengale, now in her fifth year of teaching. She enjoys being with fourth-graders and providing them with an engaging learning environment.
鈥淚 create space for them to collaborate, communicate and learn how to defend their answers, whether it鈥檚 math or reading, and to be able to communicate about their thinking,鈥� she said.
Looking back on a year of challenges brought on by a global pandemic, Massengale is proud of how her students have adjusted to the protocols without complaining.
鈥淚 have to say that the students have been incredible. They鈥檙e wearing masks all day. They are not able to do as much small group learning or hands-on activities this year, but they have adjusted very well,鈥� she said.
Concord Elementary Principal Tonna Marroni says Massengale is committed to what her students need for success and communicates well with parents.
鈥淪he brings a happy and vibrant personality to the school every day,鈥� Marroni said. 鈥淓ducators know that teaching is hard work. It is a job that extends well beyond the normal work day. Mary Margaret understands this well and shows the commitment necessary to be an outstanding teacher. Concord is fortunate to have her as a part of our staff.鈥�
Concord Elementary School is in Anderson District 5.