She said there are many things in life that can and will persuade someone to seek the challenging, yet rewarding career of becoming a teacher.
“Throughout my childhood, I struggled with the challenge of being an English as a Second Language learner,” she said. “About two weeks into my freshman year, I was jogging home when Coach Stultz, my history teacher, pulled over and asked me if I wanted a ride home. I gratefully accepted the offer relieved that he had spared me a mile run with a heavy backpack. In the passenger seat, his daughter, Stephanie began the conversation that paved the path of my future. On my way home, I learned about athletics and the cross country team. In one mile, I had gotten a new friend, joined the cross country team, and would have a ride home after practice for the rest of the season. This ride home ultimately led to a dual cross country and track scholarship to UT San Antonio. My high school coach changed my life, for I am certain, that without their involvement in my education, I could not have gone to college to become a teacher.”
McAfee continues to be an example for her students.
“I strive to teach each student with the same kindness, respect, and love that my two teachers extended toward me,” she added. “I believe in each and every student and I do not allow them to be invisible in my classroom. Coach Stultz’s legacy lives on when I look into the faces of our Seguin students and find the same glimmer of hope that was ignited in me!”
Picture Information
Seguin Elementary Campus Teacher of the Year Linda McAfee (left) and Weatherford ISD Education Foundation Past-President Donna Dickinson (photo by DERIK MOORE).