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: Carrie Muessig

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: K-5 Title I, first, third, fourth, fifth, sixth through eighth Title I reading support and sixth grade reading

Where did you attend college? Grand Valley State University (bachelors and masters) and Western Michigan University (masters)

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? 25 years; nine at Dowagiac Middle School

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I love helping kids be successful.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Running, reading, relaxing at the beach and attending sporting events.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I love peanut M&Ms and mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Amelia Bedelia because she takes everything literal, and it is a reminder that not everyone understands what you are saying.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? In middle school, I enjoyed reading, helping my dad and earning money.

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality? Purpose driven with high expectations

Who is your biggest role model and why? My grandmother was my role model because she was always there for me. She listened to me, guided me without judgment, believed in me and encouraged me to reach my goals.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? Teaching has become test driven, rather than learning to love learning.