After 10 years in the banking industry, it was my last opportunity, at mid-life, to pursue my life-long dream of becoming a teacher. I worked on weekends, putting myself through college with the help of a student-loan. It was, however, not enough to cover tuition and basic living expenses. In December of 2011 I had no idea how I was going to pay tuition the following term, and then, to my huge relief, I received this award!
Six years later, I am a Kindergarten/Grade One teacher at Hillcrest Christian School, a local, independent school. Everyday I am thankful for my students and my teaching situation. I would move across the world for the opportunity to teach where I am teaching now. Many of the students I teach and their parents, have become like family. Most are here to receive an education that aligns with their values, others are here because they need the smaller class sizes our school can provide. I work in a nurturing environment, with a team of teachers dedicated to creating a place of safety for both students and staff. I appreciate the freedom this creates to truly meet student needs. This school is a ministry and a mission and it is my dream job. I realize that many people never have the opportunity to follow their dreams or discover their purpose in life. A heartfelt thank-you to the Community Foundation and Sheehan Flint Family Fund for helping me realize mine.
Sincerely,
Sheila Unruh, BEd
