Marple Newtown Patch is featuring great teachers in the Marple Newtown area who deserve some spotlight. Teachers give a lot to their students, schools and studies and we'd like to recognize them and say a simple, thank you, for all that they do. This second-grade teacher started off as a student teacher and then a substitute teacher and 16 years later, she still loves teaching elementary school students.

Name: Stephanie M. DeLiberty

School: Loomis Elementary School

Grade/Subject: Second Grade

Years in the Industry: 16 years

Teaching History: I began as a student teacher at Worrall Elementary and after working as a substitute for two years, I began teaching at Loomis School. I have taught fourth grade for three years and 13 years in second grade, which I love!

What do you like most about your job? 

I really enjoy teaching things for the first time to my students. They love learning cursive, beginning multiplication, and seeing the amazing metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. It makes me smile to hear my students say, “This was the best day!” Seeing how much my students grow from September to June is pretty remarkable. My favorite part of the day is when I read aloud to my class. I am a fanatic about children’s literature and spend a lot of time in Barnes and Noble! I am very grateful to work with collaborative teachers and supportive parents, who make Loomis a great place to learn and teach.

Why did you become a teacher? 

I always knew I would be a teacher. Besides just genuinely enjoying being around children, I love the challenge that each year and each class brings. I like searching for new ideas on the Internet and then trying them out in my classroom. Being a primary teacher, I want my students to have a good foundation and to learn to love books and reading. As an aside, I am pretty organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay on top of paperwork!

What do you like best about your current school (projects, programs or activities that your school is a part of): 

One thing I am proud of is our annual Talent Show. This year we had 40 acts and 95 performers. Working with a few colleagues, we do our best to have each group or individual act shine. It is a highlight of our school year and an event which the kid will long remember. Opportunities for children to think of others are also important, which is why I am so glad that we participate in The Pajama
Program, make Caring Quilts for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and collect for
the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The kids really love to help and can make
a difference if given the chance.