Throughout the month of October and November, we will be introducing you to the 2023-2024 Glynn County Teachers of the Year.
Mary Ann Wellman was named Teacher of the Year at Sterling Elementary School. She has taught Adult Education, Title I Reading, 1st grade and kindergarten.
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Family: I have been married for 21 years to my wonderful husband, Jason. We have two amazing boys. Isaiah is 20 years old and a Sophomore at South Georgia State College where he plays baseball. Elijah is 17 years old and a Junior at Brunswick High School. He plays basketball and baseball for the Pirates.
Who is your role model? My role model was a wonderful, caring lady who taught me everything I know about teaching, being a mother and a lady. She was my mother. She devoted endless hours to planning, grading papers, and preparing her classroom. As a child, I remember that my mom would always be available to take me to my extracurricular activities. After I would go to bed, mom would go back to school to work on her own school work. She never stopped working and thinking about children whether it was her own or her students.
What book has most influenced you? The book that has influenced me is “Oh the Places You Will Go” by Dr. Suess. My mom gave me this book when I graduated from High School . This book has so many life lessons and inspired me to go out in the world and reach my goals. Today, I read this book to my students and tell them they can be and do anything they set their minds to. I also have continued the tradition that my mother started for me, and gave this book to my own son when he graduated from high school. I wanted him to be inspired by the book like I was to go out in the world and “move mountains.”
What is your greatest teaching memory? I was blessed to be my oldest son's Kindergarten teacher. They performed a school play at the end of the school year called “Patch the Pirate”. Isaiah was chosen for the lead part of the play. He had to memorize several lines and lead his classmates in this play. I was a very proud teacher and mother. It was amazing to see how he delivered those lines effortlessly at such a young age. Most teachers do not get the opportunity to teach their own child but for me it was a moment in my life that I will cherish.
What is your favorite quote or personal motto? Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
What is a fact about you that most people don't know? I was a dance instructor for several years. I taught Jazz, Tap, Ballet and Baton.
Any hidden talents or hobbies? I can make an amazing pan of brownies.