By Darlene Bowers
Welcome to the Ada Icon’s “Ada Teacher Feature.” Here we share thoughts and insights from local teachers who lift up and inspire our students. Let us lift up and inspire these educators as well. Today we meet Christa Preston.
It is easy to see Christa Preston’s passion for teaching children. Read on to learn her best tip for something parents/caregivers can do to help students and also to learn of this Ada High School graduate’s compassion exquisitely revealed in the sharing of her most memorable teaching moment.
What grade to you teach?
I teach second grade.
What extracurricular activities, groups, clubs or sports you are involved with?
I'm an active member of the Ada First Presbyterian Church including a member of deacons and Sunday school teacher. Also a member of Ada Music Boosters.
Where did you attend high school and college?
I'm a graduate of Ada High School, received my undergrad and master’s degree from The Ohio State University.
How long have you taught?
This is my 20th year teaching.
Why are you a teacher?
I knew long ago that being around children brought me great joy. By being a teacher I can try to make a positive difference in children's lives by teaching them, loving them and just being someone that they can always come to.
What motivates you?
I am motivated to find how to best teach each child. They all learn so differently. I want to find their interests, their needs, and then make them strive to always do their best.
What’s the best thing students can do for you?
All I want from every child is for each to try their hardest. Every child is different. Learning comes easy for some and is so very hard for others. I expect all my students to always try to improve. If I know a student is trying then I know together we can reach our goals.
What’s the best thing parents or caregivers can do for you?
As a teacher and parent I feel the best thing a parent can do for a teacher is instill the love and importance of reading. Read to your child, let them read to you. Children will become better readers and the time together is priceless.
What makes Ada schools unique or different?
I love that Ada is a small school. I love that you know all of your teachers and usually all of your classmates.
Tell us your best or most memorable teaching moment?.
My most memorable teaching moment was when I had to tell my class that a family with young students had died in a fire. I thought I could get through it without crying. I was wrong. I cried for a moment. One student asked me why I was crying and why other teachers were crying. I explained that we as teachers love our students and when something happens to them we are very sad. My class just looked at me... I realized then that so many students don't realize how much we care. We are here to do more than teach. I knew then I would never be afraid to hug my students and let them know just how much I care.
What excites, interests, and captivates you inside the classroom?
As a teacher nothing excites me more than when a child takes off with reading. Maybe it was a struggle and then something just clicks. For others it might be that they weren't interested in reading and now found the best series to read and won't put the book down. I just love to watch and listen to children read, and see them excited about it.
What excites, interests and captivates you outside the classroom?
Outside of school my life is busy and exciting too. My husband and I have four children all involved in church, sports or music. I enjoy going to their activities and being involved at my church.
