Q2, Western Security Bank, City Brew Coffee, and the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools have teamed up for "One Class at a Time." The program recognizes teachers who go above and beyond to help their students.
Meet Ann Richards, a first-grade teacher who knows the importance of making her students feel comfortable in her classroom.
"I can teach all day long," said Mrs. Richards. "But if I don't have a relationship with them, if they don't know that I care about them and that I support them and I want the best for them, then the learning feels mechanical all day long. Being in a classroom full of children, it's an important thing, and if we have a relationship then they're going to hopefully want to learn and work hard throughout the day."
She enjoys the many blessings of teaching, especially what she calls the "A-ha!" moments.
"When they look up at you and you know from their face and their eyes they got it, that is the best. That something clicked and they got it and they're ready to do it on their own," she said.
As her students move on in their educational journey, Mrs. Richards hopes they remember that when things get challenging, always keep trying your best.
"It's okay to not know something. That's why we're here. Understanding like, 'Okay, I can do this. I can ask questions. I can ask a friend. I can try it a different way. I'll learn it. I just haven't learned it yet.' That's important," she said.
For being a teacher who brings a wealth of knowledge, care, and love to her classroom, Mrs Richards was presented with a $500 grant from the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, proudly sponsored by Western Security Bank, and a $150 gift card from City Brew Coffee. Congratulations!
If you would like your teacher to be the next recipient, make a nomination HERE.
