Barbara J. Flore
West Bolivar School District
Rosedale, MS

After years of being an engaged parent of elementary and middle school children, Barbara J. Flore began to imagine herself as a teacher.

At that time, she was working as a computer operator at a bank, but her true concern was academics and her children's daily rituals at school.

"Homework was always a family session. Our dining-room table was the homework/study center. That is where everyone reported to after arriving home from school. My husband and I would sit with them and discuss what had gone on that day, while assisting them with their homework," says Flore.

She already had a bachelor's degree in business, so she decided to take the necessary classes to teach business education courses. With the help of an encouraging and supportive principal at the high school, Flore was recommended for the job and hired.

"After being hired, I felt that it was very important for me to become as knowledgeable as possible about the subjects that I was teaching. I wanted to make sure that I could explain every aspect of a problem to my students so that their understanding would be enhanced," says Flore.

This commitment to learning has led Flore to three more degrees: master's in elementary education; specialist in elementary education; and specialist in administration and supervision. She is currently working towards a doctorate in administration and supervision.

"I believe that I was meant to be a teacher. I have a passion for helping others. I believe in building respectful relationships with my students. So many students are burdened with problems and just need to know that someone really cares about them," she says.

Flore has partnered with the high school to provide after-school tutoring and remediation to students. The after-school program is designed to assist those students who are in need of homework assistance, ACT preparation and career research. She does this with the help of a 21st Century Learning Grant and the support of other devoted teachers and assistants.

New students often ask Flore how she can be so optimistic about any situation, and how she can greet them with a smile every day. Perhaps it's because of the rewards of her job.

"Last year, one of my classes surprised me with a certificate of appreciation. After presenting me with the award, they sang an inspirational song about me being their hero," Flore recalls.

XAP and Bridges congratulate Barbara Flore for her pursuit of higher education, her success in the after-school program and for inspiring her students and making a positive impact in their lives.

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