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Shawna Byrd
With a history at Geary Schools and an even longer history of teaching, Shawna Byrd makes it clear why she was chosen as Geary Elementary’s Teacher of the Year.
Byrd has been at Geary Elementary for nine years now and is currently the speech therapist. She has continuously worked with students to help them with their language and communication issues.
“Communication is an essential skill no matter what job or industry you are in,” Byrd said. “I wanted to teach a skill that my students will use the rest of their lives. I also really love small group and individual instruction.”
Byrd attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University and earned a bachelor of science degree in special education. She later went on to attend the University of Central Oklahoma where she earned her master’s degree in speech pathology.
Despite Byrd’s 13 year history of teaching, she hadn’t always planned to be a teacher. Byrd originally had eyes on working in the medical field before deciding she wanted to teach and make a difference for someone else.
“I wanted to be a nurse but after I worked as a CNA in college I realized I didn’t like blood,” Byrd said.
This school year hasn’t been the easiest for Byrd, her colleagues, or her students. Having to spend parts of the year virtually has posed some challenges, however, Byrd has been able to see the bright side of things.
“The school year has been challenging, but my students are learning resilience, responsibility, and computer skills that they would not have learned if not for the current situation,” Byrd said. “I am so proud of my students and grateful to my parents for sticking out all the virtual therapy sessions.” Byrd said she has loved
Byrd said she has loved getting to see how her students’ speech and language skills are being translated in their home environments, and this is one of the consequences of virtual learning that she has come to love.
“I have had several students be dismissed and have seen progress happen even on the virtual platform that I wasn’t expecting to happen,” Byrd said.
Byrd has made sure to think of new and fun ways for her students to stay engaged during their online learning time. One of the ways she has done this is by implementing virtual games that they can play.
“Making it fun and not just drilling has been a big key in keeping my students engaged online,” Byrd said.
When asked what her favorite part of teaching over the years has been, Byrd had an easy answer she was excited to give.
“Seeing my students progress is by far my favorite! I love seeing them understand a new language concept or produce a sound correctly for the first time,” she said.
In the end, while Byrd said she isn’t sure why she was chosen for Teacher of the Year, one thing she was certain of was her love for her students and making sure they reach success.
“It feels amazing and humbling [to be Teacher of the Year],” Byrd said. “I am so grateful to my school and colleagues. I work with some amazing people and this was an honor I was not expecting.”
Looking ahead to the remainder of the year, Byrd said she is ready for things to start heating up a bit.
“I look forward to doing therapy outside when it’s warmer!!!”