DeKalb West School has selected first grade teacher Susan West as its Teacher of the Month for December.

“Being named teacher of the month was a big surprise,” Mrs. West said. “It's always nice to get a pat on the back.”

“Mrs. West is a hard worker,” Principal Sabrina Farler said. “She is a great team player and always finds the best in each of her students.”

Mrs. West is in her tenth year teaching at DWS. She taught second grade her first two years before moving to the first grade classroom where she has continued.

“My favorite part of teaching is seeing the "ah ha" moments and gratification from a chance to make a little difference,” she says.

Born and raised in Georgia, Mrs. West met her husband, Randy, while in college, and they married after graduation. For a while, they were quite mobile because of his duties in the military.

“We settled down in Tennessee because we have family here and have always loved it,” she said.

The couple has three children and three grandchildren. 

“She is a wonderful person and teacher,” says Coach and P.E. Teacher Kelly Pyburn. “She always has a kind smile and a soft voice.”

Mrs. West always has a smile and a cheerful word,” says 7th grade teacher Vicki Wilson “Working with her in the after school program, I am impressed with her unlimited patience with our younger students.”