Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Susan Grear

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Sixth and seventh grade math, science, and STEM

Where did you attend college? Western Michigan University

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? This is my 18th year of teaching and my sixth year at Dowagiac.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I love working with kids!

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? I enjoy reading, working in my vegetable garden and flower beds, taking long walks, doing crafts, and spending time with my family.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I played the trombone in the Western Michigan University Bronco Marching Band.

Who is your biggest role model and why? My biggest role model is Tally Orange, a retired math teacher from Marcellus. She explained things well, and was always supportive and positive.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? Technology is used in the classroom a lot more.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? Love and support your child. Believe in them and encourage them to challenge themselves. Know that if you weren’t good at math, it doesn’t mean your child will not be good at it.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is… I care about them and math can be fun.