Teacher of the Month: Holton preschool teacher, Joni Ramage

HOLTON (KSNT) - Not only is Joni Ramage a preschool teacher in the Holton School District, she graduated from it. Although, she wasn't always a teacher.

Currently in her first year of teaching, Ramage previously worked in healthcare. With experience in substitute teaching, she knew she wanted to take it on full-time.

"I just really love the kids, I love the atmosphere and it's just something that I really love," Ramage said. "I was just ready for something different, something new. I'm a big believer of our Holton school district. I graduated here, my kids will graduate here, and I love the community and I love to be a part of it."

"She wasn't afraid to just to kind of come in, and let's just dive in, and work at it, and collaborate, and do the best with for what's best for kids," Early Learning Director, Karla Tanking said.

In a field of teaching where there's a lot going on all the time, whether that be learning, activity, or play, Tanking said it's Ramage's natural calmness that separates her from the rest.

"Not much rattles her," she said. "She is very tolerant, very patient, she always gets down on the kids' level. You know she kneels down so she's eye level with them. She's always talking in a very calm voice, and it naturally brings that calmness."

For Ramage, that ability to connect with the kids leads to what she said is her favorite part of the job. Being able to see the kids progress.

"I see the changes that they have made. I see changes weekly if not daily and that's really a rewarding part of this position," Ramage said. "Knowing your making a difference in their lives when they're at an age when it's so important."

For people out there looking to have a career change in teaching like Ramage did, or students thinking about going into the field, 27 News asked her why she recommends doing so.

"I just encourage anyone that loves kids like I do to give it a shot, she said. "Because it's definitely rewarding to see the progress they make."

If you know a teacher that you would like to nominate for teacher of the month, you can do so by emailing teachers@ksnt.com.

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