Sherry Hibbard, a kindergarten teacher at Wenzel Elementary School, has been selected as the Sturgis Journal’s “Amazing Teacher” of the Month.
Nicole Gonzalez nominated Hibbard, praising the care and reassurance she has provided during her daughter’s first year of school.
“It’s my daughter’s first year of school, and Ms. Hibbard has been nothing but amazing. She eased so much of my anxiety about my only child starting kindergarten. On days she doesn’t have school, she says how much she misses her teacher.”
From the teacher
Hibbard has spent all 30 years of her career teaching kindergarten. She taught for seven years at Fawn River Kindergarten Center before it closed and has spent the past 23 years at Wenzel Elementary, shaping generations of Sturgis students.
She said the nomination left her at a loss for words.
“I was speechless. I am very honored to be nominated for this award.”
What inspires her
Hibbard says inspiration surrounds her each day inside her kindergarten classroom.
“The sounds of active learning, the giggles of children learning how to be a good friend, and the look of satisfaction on a child’s face when something finally clicks all inspire me. When my students say, ‘This was the best day ever,’ that means everything.”
One of the most meaningful parts of her career has been teaching multiple generations of the same families in the community.
“Knowing that I’ve taught the children of my former students is incredibly fulfilling. I teach in the same school system I graduated from and still live in the same small town. Best of all are the hugs from students, both current and former.”
About the school
Wenzel Elementary School, part of Sturgis Public Schools, is located in Sturgis, Michigan. The school serves students in kindergarten through 4th grade.
Do you know an Amazing Teacher?
The Amazing Teacher program, sponsored by John B. Simpson Co. and LL Electric in partnership with the Sturgis Journal, recognizes educators whose compassion, creativity and dedication inspire students and strengthen their communities. Teachers are selected monthly, honored locally, and entered for opportunities to receive both local prizes and national-level recognition and awards.
Is there an Amazing Teacher in your life? Let’s hear about them! Nominations are open to all. Go here to submit your favorite teacher.
This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Meet the Sturgis Journal Amazing Teacher for the month: Sherry Hibbard
Reporting by Laura L. Davis, Sturgis Journal / Sturgis Journal
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