Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Lauren Leighton

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Sixth grade ELA, SOAR, life skills

Where did you attend college? Western Michigan University.

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? Nine years, seven with Dowagiac Middle School.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? To work with children.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Going on adventures with my own children.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I enjoy all types of music.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Hermione Granger because of her love of books.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? Sports.

How would your coworkers describe your teaching style and personality? Friendly.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? Read and ask questions.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is… To be kind.