Oscar Patterson ESE teacher teaches with compassion

PANAMA CITY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Lea Gunter is about to finish her second year as an ESE teacher at Oscar Patterson Elementary School.

In her time around the campus, everyone has noticed how she always puts we before me.

“She’s just really a person that builds up the school,” said Oscar Patterson Elementary School Principal Charlotte Blue. “She stays and does all the things she needs to do, and then she’s always reaching out to make sure everybody else has what they need as well.”

When it comes to teaching her students, Gunter knows compassion is a must.

“You have to be compassionate and patient to work with students with needs and trying to figure out what they need and how you can assist them to facilitate their learning,” added Gunter.

Having a set, daily routine is just as important in Gunter’s classroom, and it is one of the reasons why she stands out in a crowd.

“Kids need to know what their day is going to be like every day, especially for autism students,” Blue went on to say. “They need that consistency to a predictable routine and Miss Gunter provides that for our students.”

“The ultimate goal is for them to learn,” Gunter said. “So it’s good to have structure in place and rules in place so that it’s the same every day. If you stick to those they’re able to get that information and really keep it ingrained in them.”

All in all, her students are Gunter’s top priority, and watching them succeed is truly a blessing.

“I love coming in and seeing what they’ve learned,” Gunter added. “They show something new every day and it’s just so empowering to see their growth.

That’s what makes Lea Gunter a Class Act.

If there is someone in your child’s school system who you think is a Class Act, nominate them today.

Janitors, bus drivers, and cafeteria workers are all eligible for this award.

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