Fourth Grade, Vinita Public Schools
“Hello, I’m *Will!” A confident fourth grader greeted me with a wide smile and outstretched hand. I blinked, wondering if this was really fourth grade. I quickly remembered I was the adult and reciprocated the smile and handshake. Each of Mrs. Laurie Logan’s fourth graders welcomed me with this kind of warmth and authenticity: evidence that their teacher values nurturing both the mind and the heart. With an initial interest in social work and as a current CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer, it is clear from the moment you meet Mrs. Logan–her love for every child drives her every action.
I had the joy of participating in indoor recess with Mrs. Logan’s students. While building LEGO, I asked a few of them what they loved about her: “She loves us, protects us, and takes care of us. She’s everything
you would want in a teacher.”
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Talk to us about your education journey.
My journey actually began as I sought a degree in social work. The only thing I’ve ever wanted to do is help children. After many discussions, my husband and I determined that teaching would be a better avenue for me since–at the time–we had three small children, and I could still be there to help other kids in as many ways as I possibly could. I’ve been teaching for 23 years now, and I can’t imagine having a career in anything besides education. In addition to teaching, I am also a CASA volunteer so that I can speak up for children who have come from a background of abuse. I want to remind children how much they are loved–especially those children who have experienced trauma. Every child’s life has purpose.
What is your “why”?
My kids! I always want my students to know how much they are loved. In a world full of chaos and questions, I want them to know that I will always be a constant: I will always be there for them. Whether that means giving a hug, lending a hoodie, or providing tutoring, I will always be an advocate for them.
In our current state and nation teacher crisis, what words of wisdom do you have on retaining and recruiting highly effective teachers?
We have to value teachers. We have to respect them and let them know how important they are. Certainly, appreciation from our administration is vital, but beyond that, we have to feel valued by parents and society in general.
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A beautiful combination of deep love and incredible skill, Mrs. Logan chooses to bring her energy and passion to foster a sense of belonging in her classroom. Her walls perfectly decorated with affirmations and her room reverberating with gentle instrumental music create a classroom that immediately invites you to be an active learner. As students read and analyzed The Tale of Despereaux, Mrs. Logan asked, “Do I care if you make a mistake?” Her class enthusiastically responded, “No! You care if we don’t try!”
And try everyone did.
In this classroom, all are welcome. All are loved. All are expected to make, inspect, and correct mistakes. As Mrs. Logan’s wall reminds us: “Mistakes are proof we’re trying.”
Thank you, Mrs. Logan.
Thank you, Teachers of Oklahoma.
*Student name changed for privacy.
