ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) — While students across much of the Big Country enjoy their final days of summer, teachers at Wylie South Elementary have been spending weeks unpacking boxes, hanging decorations and putting the finishing touches on the district’s newest campus.
When the school opens its doors next week, students will be welcomed into a brand-new building featuring new classrooms, a library, cafeteria and updated technology. But inside those classrooms, it’s the teachers’ personalities that stand out.
For first-year kindergarten teacher Amberly Patterson, the opportunity to begin her teaching career in a brand-new school feels special.
“It’s a surreal feeling, I can’t even put it into words,” Patterson said. “Being a first-year teacher and knowing that I have students who are coming in for their first year of school, all while in a brand-new school… it’s such a blessing and an answered prayer.”
Patterson completed her student teaching at Wylie before interviewing for what she initially considered to be a practice interview. She said she quickly realized Wylie was where she was meant to be.
“I really felt called,” Patterson said. “It was not my plan. I was planning to go out to the Metroplex and experience the city life. Then I sat down for the Wylie interview and felt this calling. I knew I needed to be here.”
Her goal for the school year centers on one word: resilient.
“I want them coming in every day knowing that this is a safe space for them, that they are loved and welcome,” Patterson said. “I want to challenge them to grow.”…