Shannon Beilby Teacher Spotlight

BY MEGAN E. SMITH

SHANNON BEILBY has been teaching for 13 years, five of which have been with Hamilton City Schools at Wilson Middle School. Prior to teaching, she worked as a cashier at Kroger, server at Bob Evans, and worked at a day care center during her high school and college years.

When asked what (or who) inspired Shannon to begin teaching, she recalled her experiences as both a student and a child of a teacher.

“I have always wanted to do something where I could make a difference. Growing up, I loved school and I always had the best teachers,” Shannon stated. “My mom was in special education, and watching her with the kids and the joy she was able to bring to them really inspired me to want to be that light for kids as well. Knowing that I had the chance to make a difference, and help those in ways they didn’t even know they needed, is something that is so special to me.”

Many of Shannon’s students continue to appreciate the difference she has made on their lives long after they have moved onto high school and then adulthood.

“I love the relationships that I have been able to build throughout my 18 years of teaching,” Shannon exclaimed. “Being able to be a part of weddings, graduations, and continuing to be a role model for these kids is a dream.”

Shannon describes her teaching style as “relaxed, but structured.” While the image of an erupting volcano may not invoke relaxation for a majority of people, Shannon finds ways each year to make lessons about molten rock and hot gases fun for her students.

“One of my favorite projects we do all year that the students ask about on day one is the volcanoes,” Shannon said. “Seeing the creativity and effort these kids put into building their volcanoes is such a joy, and I love being a part of it. I have been doing this every year, and every year students surprise me with how they are able to make some of these volcanoes.”

In addition to creativity, Shannon is also continually surprised by her students’ reactions to her lessons and experiments.

“I had a student look at me one day and say ‘You know what Mrs. Beilby, this is actually really cool and I never thought it would be.’ Hearing those words are so powerful, and help remind me why I became a teacher in the first place.”

Shannon’s experience in teaching has given her wisdom that she shares with students and fellow teachers: • FOR STUDENTS: Be organized! It is amazing how much better your grades and attitude will be if you can find what you are looking for. • FOR NEW TEACHERS: Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. I tell my students that every year and I think it applies to teachers as well. Teachers need to know that there are going to be days, lessons, or classes that are going to be a challenge for them, but don’t stop swinging. Keep trying your best and keep having fun and love what you do. Eventually, the hit will come.