Instilling a Love of School

by Andi Bourne

Pathfinder

SEELEY LAKE – Seeley Lake Elementary's (SLE) new preschool teacher Jama Mauldin is excited to play a role in building a foundation for education with her students and being a positive voice of encouragement for them. While this is her first year teaching with her own classroom, she feels her background in mental health, previous experience in the classroom and heart for children will give her a great start.

Mauldin has always loved children. "They are fascinating and I enjoy figuring out how their little brains process the world!" wrote Mauldin in an email to the Pathfinder.

She has also known pivotal people in the education system that have impacted her life and others in a positive way.

"To be able to give back in that field is an incredible honor and a responsibility I do not take lightly," wrote Mauldin.

Prior to moving to Seeley Lake three years ago, Mauldin worked as a para educator in kindergarten at Alberton School. She said she loved it so much that she thought about changing her degree to elementary education. However, she only has one semester left to finish her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Once she finishes that this winter, she will then decide what she wants to pursue for her master's degree.

"I love growing and learning myself and I will always be looking for ways to make education fun and interactive," wrote Mauldin.

It was the impact SLE had on Mauldin and her husband Chris as parents that confirmed her family's decision to stay in Seeley.

This year Mauldin is looking forward to integrating her background in mental health in the classroom setting.

"My background in mental health and dealing with behavior will be easily integrated into a classroom setting," wrote Mauldin. "It is my conviction that every child has their own unique needs and gifting and it is our job as adults (and teachers) to do everything in our ability to help them succeed."

Before school started, Mauldin remodeled the preschool classroom.

"My goal was to create an inviting atmosphere without too much sensory stimulation while keeping a fun and exciting feel," wrote Mauldin.

Mauldin has four main goals for her students this year. She wants to instill a love of school. She hopes to embed concepts her students need for kindergarten in a fun and dynamic way. She will create an atmosphere of love and acceptance. Finally, she will encourage them to be unique individuals.

"Preschool is a developmental age of wonder, exploration, movement and discovery," wrote Mauldin. "It can build a foundation for the rest of their academic journey and I long to be a positive voice in their lives encouraging them to be all they long to be."

When she is not in the classroom, Mauldin serves on the board at Sparrow's Vine Pregnancy Resource Center and is SLE's assistant volleyball coach. She loves to sing, drink coffee, shop, get her nails done, be involved with her church and spend time with her family and friends.