Teachers can change the world

As a young girl, I always enjoyed school. As I continued through my elementary, middle and high school years, my feelings for school did not waiver. As a young elementary student, I remember playing “school” with my little brothers. We set up a classroom in our living room and I even assigned “homework.” It was during those times when I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.

Hannah Newman

Hannah Newman

I have a passion for learning and working with children, which is why I have decided to attend Minot State University in the fall and pursue a degree in elementary education. 

Nelson Mandela stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Teachers are world changers. I want to be a teacher because they have an opportunity to impact children’s lives.

My teachers have influenced my life in more ways than I can count. I grew up in a rural school with small classroom sizes, which was extremely beneficial because it provided me with one-on-one attention from my teachers. They pushed me to try harder not only on assignments, but also in life. I want to instill my passion for the importance of education to my students, just like my teachers did for me.

Another reason I decided to pursue elementary education is that I love working with children. Throughout my life, I have always been involved with children, whether babysitting for neighbors and friends, teaching Sunday school classes at church, or even working at my school’s after-school program. I always find joy when I work with children and that is why I want to follow my passion.

I feel confident in my decision to pursue elementary education in the coming fall. I cannot wait to have the ability to influence children through their learning. I am excited to one day have my own classroom of students. Being a teacher is one of the most rewarding careers in the workforce and I cannot wait to experience that career.


Hannah Newman, 18, is a senior at South Prairie School, where she is involved in yearbook committee and Sources of Strength. Next year, Hannah is planning on attending Minot State University to pursue a degree in elementary education. She enjoys window shopping for shoes, being with friends and family, and participating in church events. She loves salty snacks and baking/decorating sugar cookies. Hannah is the daughter of Jay and Marcie Newman, who are members of Verendrye Electric Cooperative and SRT Communications Inc.