EudoraNews.com

Beth Swanson is taking one for the team — her teaching team that is.

The Eudora Elementary School first-grade teacher, who was named the Eudora Chamber of Commerce’s Teacher of the Month for December, said a large part of her success came from collaborating with the team of other first-grade teachers.

“I felt very touched and humbled by it (the award), but I’m part of a team so being singled out makes me a bit uncomfortable,” Swanson said. “I received it on behalf of my team because it’s a reflection of them.”

EES Assistant Principal Shelley Dougherty said Swanson is an important cog in the first-grade teaching team.

“Beth is the very definition of dedication,” Dougherty said. “She is integral to the way that first grade team functions together. She approaches everything she does with such a passionate energy.”

Swanson has been with Eudora USD 491 for six years and went into teaching for a variety of reasons.

“I love children, I love school and I have a family full of educators, so it’s almost like there was no other option,” Swanson said. “It’s the perfect fit for me.”

She said her favorite part of teaching is the moments when a student joyously achieves.

“I call them happy dance moments, where the child practically runs to you to show you what it is they accomplished or figured out,” Swanson said.

And whether it’s trying to master new technology or improve her teaching techniques, Swanson said it’s important for her to keep learning.

“I know that to stay effective and to stay fresh and excited, you need new challenges and you need to try new things,” she said.