Mary Ashley McCue, Lakeview Primary Teacher of the Year, embodies the spirit of dedication and passion that has made her a beloved figure in Baldwin County's educational landscape for nearly three decades. Her journey as an educator began with a transformative experience in the third grade that left an indelible mark on her life.
"I'd had an accident on my bicycle," McCue recalled a pivotal moment in her life during her third-grade year. A bicycle accident left her with scars, but her teacher saw an opportunity for a lesson in resilience and human anatomy. Gathering the class, her teacher celebrated her healing process, teaching the young students the wonder of the human body, "and everybody clapped!" she said, "I was so surprised, and it made me feel good about myself. She helped me develop my self confidence. And she also made me understand that learning could be fun!"
This unforgettable experience also introduced McCue to the joy of interactive learning. She vividly remembers a "round the world" project where students explored different countries through food, books, and shared experiences. Early exposure to dynamic learning methods set the stage for her future career.
Determined to follow in her teacher's footsteps, McCue pursued a career in education. After graduating from Georgia College, she settled in Baldwin County, where she met her husband and began her teaching journey. Her unwavering dedication to teaching has seen her through 27 years of shaping young minds.
McCue has been a cornerstone of Lakeview Primary School for the past seven years, teaching primarily in the first grade. Her passion for this age group stems from the sheer excitement and openness to learning that first graders exhibit. "Sometimes the greatest challenge of being a teacher can be trying to find the time and supplies to get everything together," she said, "but then sometimes you don't even need that! It can be a simple song or a high five or a circle. It can be a deep belly breath, and anything if you can make it fun!"
She delights in helping her students make friends, instilling respect, and witnessing their growth throughout the school year. Mary Ashley describes her classroom as a "family" where mistakes are embraced and overcome together, fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment.
When McCue was named Teacher of the Year, she was genuinely surprised and speechless. To her, teaching is not just a profession but a calling she has always embraced wholeheartedly. She views this honor as a recognition of her lifelong commitment to education and her students.
Mary Ashley McCue's story is a testament to the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Her unwavering dedication, infectious passion for teaching, and commitment to nurturing young minds make her a true pride of Baldwin County and an inspiration to all. Mary Ashley McCue, a teacher who continues to make learning a joyful and transformative experience, has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Lakeview Primary and beyond.
