School's out forever for kindergarten teacher Jane Payne and intervention specialist Sharon Lindsey. Each of them took a few minutes to reflect on their experiences at Clermont Northeastern.
Mrs. Payne:
It was my dream to become a teacher since the second grade. I was inspired by Sister Susan, my second grade teacher at Saint Peter’s school in Skokie, Illinois.
I graduated from Illinois State University in May of 1983. My first job in the field of teaching was at Middlefork Elementary school in Northfield, Illinois. After 2 years there, I taught Kindergarten at Saint Philip the Apostle Elementary School for 2 years.
In 1987 when my son was born, I took some time off. In 1993, I went back to Saint Philip the Apostle to teach preschool for 2 years.
In March of 1995, my family moved to Ohio. I spent my first year at Clermont Northeastern as a substitute teacher. I was hired the following year as a Title One teacher. After four years of teaching as a Title One teacher, I moved into kindergarten and remained there the rest of my teaching career.
My favorite thing about teaching is watching the children learn and make connections. I love how each child is unique in their personality and style of learning. I also love how honest kindergarten children are. They always tell it like they see it. Their perspectives on things are always so simple and true.
I will definitely miss the children. Each year was always fresh, new and exciting. The children came with excitement, wonder and sometimes a little uncertainty on the first day. I was able to witness their growth and development throughout the school year. Making the leap from learning the letters, sounds and blending to reading. The process was magical for the children to experience. I will also miss my work “family”. I have been fortunate to have worked with so many dedicated professionals over the years.
I plan to spend time with my family, travel, garden, read, knit and quilt. I also am looking forward to reflecting on all the wonderful memories that my teaching career has given me over the years.
It has been my absolute pleasure to have served the Clermont Northeast School district and community of the last 26 years. I have met many wonderful people. The students will always have a very special place in my heart.
GO ROCKETS!!!!
Mrs. Lindsey:
I just completed my 34th year teaching special education. I was first hired by Clermont County Educational Center and taught students with special needs in CNE buildings for 9 years. I was then hired by CNE to teach special education for the next 25 years.
My favorite thing about teaching is building positive relationships with students. It makes my heart smile seeing happy students who are excited about being with friends, learning and enjoying school.
There are many things I will miss:
-Working with students every day and watching them grow socially and academically.
-The cute comments and stories students share. They always speak from their hearts and say the cutest things.
-Working with the wonderful, dedicated teachers to help meet the individual needs of all students.
-Constantly learning and growing as a teacher both professionally and personally.
I plan to spend more time with my family and friends. I also hope to be able to have more time to read, exercise, travel, meal plan and develop new hobbies.
As I reflect back through the years of my children attending CNE and the privilege I was given to work at CNE, I can't help but feel so very blessed. I will cherish all the wonderful opportunities, friendships and memories. CNE will always hold a special place in my heart.
CNE Elementary will certain miss these two loving and dedicated teachers, but we also wish them the best life has to offer!
