• H.H. Beam Elementary teacher reflects on nearly six decades in the profession

      Donna Hess has spent nearly six decades shaping young minds, and this year, she brings her passion for teaching to H.H. Beam Elementary 草榴社区. Although new to H.H. Beam, Hess is no stranger to Gaston County 草榴社区s, having spent the last nine years at Southwest Middle 草榴社区.

      When asked about her decision to come out of retirement to teach fourth-grade math, Hess said, “The bigger the challenge, the bigger the reward.”

      Hess’ educational journey began in St. Louis where she attended school and later taught in the same district. With encouragement from her father, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Missouri State University and a master’s degree from Webster University.

      “I wanted to teach from the time I was in elementary school,” Hess said. “Every day, there’s an opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life. It might be one addition problem they never worked out correctly or a multiplication problem that took them three months to learn. Seeing that first smile because of a grade they’re proud of – that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

      One of her most memorable moments occurred at Southwest Middle 草榴社区. A student who was often absent due to family issues finally grasped the material during a review for the end-of-grade tests.  “He had a smile on his face because he realized he understood everything we had been doing. That moment was priceless.”

      Hess has retired five times, but each time, she felt like something was missing.  “草榴社区 would end, and I’d go home to enjoy the summer, but there was a hole. I wasn’t preparing for the next school year. So, I’d cancel my retirement and return to work. I need something to look forward to and people who depend on me,” she explained.

      Despite her children’s wishes for her to retire permanently, Hess remains dedicated to students.  “I want to be here with these kids. Some days are frustrating, but every day, someone does something that makes being here meaningful.”

      Hess’ career has come full circle as she returns to teaching fourth grade, just as she did at the beginning of her career. She recalls her first day of teaching when she walked into her classroom and saw the sparkle in her students’ eyes; they were eager to learn. That moment confirmed she was in the right place.

      One of her current students, Elijah Chamblee Langford, struggled with multiplication and division last year, but says he’s learning a lot from Mrs. Hess. “She’s a nice teacher, and I’m getting better at math because of her.”

      Hess has been named Teacher of the Year several times and has written books for students and teachers about math and English. She was also inducted into the Teachers Academic Society.

      “After all these years, I never want to stop coming to work and doing my job. Whether it’s Monday or Friday, I wake up ready to go. As long as these kids are here ready to learn, I want to be a part of it.”

      Hess has taught every grade from kindergarten to high school and even college courses for future teachers.  “The amazing thing is, it’s all the same. The subject and level may differ, but the need to achieve and fulfill that need is constant.”

      With a son, daughter, and three grandchildren, Hess’ dedication to teaching and children remains constant. “I still love it. Even the worst day is a good day.”