Alyssa Ridenour
reporter@greenepublishing.com
"If you don't like something, change it." -Maya Angelou
Donna Law is a mother of two and a widow of 10 years. Her oldest is her son, who is 20-years-old and works as an electrician’s helper. Her daughter is 19 and is currently attending the University of Florida, majoring in foreign language. Law resides in Hamilton County and has made the commute to James Madison Preparatory High School (JMPHS) every workday for about six years. She teaches all sciences except agriculture. This includes physical science, biology, anatomy and chemistry.
When her son and daughter were younger, she often found herself volunteering in the classroom, where she found her love for teaching science. She realized that there were several science teachers who didn't even like the subject. She chose to take matters into her own hands. "I had two options," said Law. "I could complain or I could do something about it. I chose to do something about it." She decided to enroll at Valdosta State University and later graduated in 2014. In her venture for a higher education, she achieved a bachelors in biology, a minor in chemistry and a masters in education. It wasn't long before she started her job at JMPHS.
Law explains that she emphasizes respect, independent thinking, character and work ethic in her classroom. "I'm not big on trying to change a student," said Law. "I want them to be who they are." She also explains that she believes in giving her students respect. "I can't expect respect if I'm not giving it," said Law. She cares deeply about her students and encourages them to voice their opinions and exhibit behavior that is employable.
Law also understands that all of her students are different and unique in their own ways. She explained that every kid comes from a different background, and some of them don't have a good home life. She can usually tell who these kids are based on their behavior and body language. Bad behavior can often be a cry for help. "You learn quickly that you have so many different personalities and learning abilities in your classroom," said Law.
Law's biggest challenge with working in the education field is time. There's so much to do and simply not enough time in the day. "I work 10 to 11 hours everyday on campus," said Law. However, she mentioned that her students make the time worth it. "Interacting with the kids is my favorite part of the job," said Law. "They make me laugh every single day. They remind me to enjoy life and not get caught up in all the details of adulthood."
Law is very passionate about her job and doesn't regret her decision to join the education field. "I genuinely love what I do," said Law. "I've always said that when I stop loving what I do, I'll stop teaching."