Losing a Mentor
by Carla Flores, Kids Ministry Director
A couple of weeks ago, I was informed that my student-teaching mentor, Annette Bright, had suddenly passed away. It was a huge shock to all who had the joy of meeting and knowing her. Annette was a person who radiated Jesus’ love, had a sense of humor like no other, and enjoyed advocating for those around her. I met Annette in January 2020 at Frances Willard Elementary. I had chosen this school to be the place where I would complete my student teaching training since it had been my elementary school 15 years ago. It was a school that I remembered fondly and whose teachers had left an impact on my life. Annette met me and began mentoring me with open hands, teaching me the ropes to becoming a great teacher not only through her words but through her actions as well. She invited me into her classroom and even allowed me to add pieces of myself into it.
Over the course of the next few months, Annette demonstrated what it meant to be a great teacher. Focusing on creative ways to teach her students, advocating for students during state assessments, and even standing up for teachers as the district added to their workload and made neverending changes. If you know me, you know I tend to shy away from confrontation. During my first PLC (Professional Learning Community) meeting, the 5th grade team, instructional coach, and principals were addressing state assessments and the process of data collecting afterwards. I was taking notes to ensure I would be ready for the test taking season. Annette began advocating for her students, mentioning the stress and pressure state testing brought to them. I listened intently and learned more about teaching than I had in my 4 years in college. Annette not only knew her students but used her role as a teacher to make their education one that they would enjoy and be meaningful for their lives in the long run. This instance was one of many that impacted me and led me to be the teacher I am today.
Annette loved snow days; she'd bring out her beloved snow day flag, signed by Bryan Busby, a local weatherman, a day before in hopes that it would help bring in some snow. KCKPS had not used a snow day this school year but on January 25th, even with a lack of snow, a snow day was given. I believe this was orchestrated by God to give Annette a beautiful snow day on the day of her passing. Annette, if I could see you again, I’d let you know how much you’ve impacted my life. How your quirky smirk and humorous outlook on life planted a seed of joy in my heart. How you advocating for your students through words and action meant and taught me much more than any college class could. How your love of Jesus and your Catholic faith shown out of you through your love for your students, fellow teachers, and even a stranger in your classroom like myself. I’m thankful to have learned and been mentored by you. My life, your students’ lives, and so many others have been shaped by your dedicated and steadfast spirit. Cheers to another snow day, my dear friend.
Please join me in praying for Annette’s family and friends: her husband Dean, her beloved sons Micah and Seth, and her students and coworkers at Frances Willard Elementary.
Mission Adelante Observation Nights
March 6th to March 9th
Are you interested in taking the next step to volunteer? Take a glimpse of what is going at Mission Adelante and what we are doing in our different programs.
This is a great opportunity to have the full experience of a Mission Adelante volunteer.
For more information visit: www.missionadelante.org/observe
Be part of our programs!
We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this trimester?
How can you help?
Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.
Volunteer – Come to one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe
Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.
