It was nearly 30 years ago that Dawna Countryman of Saugus lined up her baby dolls and stuffed animals in neat rows and played school, not house, but school. Countryman and her sister, now a nurse would roll a huge blackboard around their apartment bedroom pretending to teach their toys. Today it’s not pretend, it’s a way of life for the Tesoro Elementary School teacher who is one of five teachers statewide to be honored with the coveted title of Teacher of the Year 2007.
“I love teaching all kids, but there is something so magical about fifth graders. They are so amazing and so inspirational,” says Countryman, who has been teaching for 19 years.
It was the inspiration of Countryman’s second grade teacher, Mrs. Pavloff at Alexandria Elementary School that propelled her to a life as a teacher herself.
“She was simply amazing. I learned so many life lessons from her. She really bent over backwards,” says Countryman.
And that dedication and commitment to going out of her way is now a trademark of Countryman’s teaching. The more challenging a student is, the more she turns up the compassion.
“I was given a student right after I got back from maternity leave who was known to be very aggressive. He had thrown a chair at another teacher. I just told him in no uncertain terms that we will love, have respect and learn together,” says Countryman.
It worked. There was no aggressive behavior and the two became very close, even going to breakfast occasionally before school began.
While going above and beyond in her fifth grade classroom, Countryman is also the mother of a sixth grade girl and a seventh grade boy.
“They know my expectations are high for them and they keep up with their work,” says Countryman.
Her expectations for herself are also high as she continues to work towards earning her Ph.D, publishing and consulting teachers at the University level. Yet, keeping a close connection with students, she says, will always be a priority for her.
“I try to make each day memorable and keep them excited about learning,” says Countryman.
In keeping with her generous approach to life, Countryman wanted to give special attention and recognition to the Saugus school district, the staff at Tesoro, Prinicpal Mary McKeon and all the other teachers, as well, when referring to her “Teacher of the Year” award. Her humbleness must truly be a blessing to those who work and learn from her.