1st Grade Teacher Honored by School District

Molly O'Neill never stayed in one place too long while she was growing up. Now that she's an adult, she's making a difference, staying put in her first year as a first grade teacher at the Springfield Literacy Center.

An Army brat who moved nine times as her father's Army assignments demanded, she also learned from an example that her parents set and that inspired her to go into teaching.

O'Neill is Being Honored by the Springfield School District as its April Employee of the Month.

According to an announcement on the District's website, O'Neill credits her parents' love and care for foster children with inspiring her to go into teaching.

She was influenced at an early age to go into teaching by her parents who took in foster children who needed to be nurtured and loved in a caring home. Molly is in her fourth year in education and her first year at the SLC.

“Teaching first graders is the best job in the whole world” Molly said. She continued, “Every day is different, fun, and totally enjoyable. The students learn from me and I learn from them too. I love it when I witness a light-bulb-moment, when whatever topic we’re learning about clicks and makes sense to their first grade brains.”

Colleagues Praise O'Neill

The staff at the SLC were quick to recognize Molly for her commitment to excellence. Nancy Dallett, a first grade colleague said, “Molly is the ultimate team player. It seems like she has always been part of our team, she fits in so perfectly at the SLC.” First grade teacher Christin Pasella added, “It is such a pleasure to work with Molly. She is an outgoing, energetic, and compassionate teacher. She makes learning fun and exciting.

Her students adore her creative and fun-loving personality. She is a truly wonderful teacher – I am so happy to work with her.” Wendy Yohn, the principal of the SLC, concluded by saying, “Molly is knowledgeable, full of enthusiasm, and well loved by her students.  Molly also co-facilitates our SLC Snack Club. She is a wonderfully positive addition to our SLC family.”