Smith County Insider “Educator Spotlight”: Peggy Denton

May 8, 2020

Smith County Insider’s “Educator Spotlight” series is our way of celebrating the incredible educators in Smith County who go above and beyond for their students, both inside and outside of the classroom!

Smith County Educator Peggy Denton – Pre-K, Union Heights Elementary School

Today’s “Educator Spotlight” features Peggy Denton. Peggy is a teacher at Union Heights Elementary School, where she teaches what she says is “the best grade ever”: Pre-K.

Peggy is originally from Jackson County, but she has been in Smith County for 19 years.

She has been teaching for 24 years.

Smith County Insider interviewed Peggy about her experiences as an educator, and this is what she had to say.

SCI: When did you realize that you wanted to be a teacher?

PD: When I was in 3rd Grade. I wanted to be a teacher just like Patsy Mahaney. In the basement of my parent’s house, I had my own classroom set up. As soon as I got home, I would play teacher until bedtime. My parents set me up the coolest classroom. I had real student’s desks, a real teacher desk, a big chalkboard and other things teachers have. I loved playing teacher then and I love teaching my Pre-K class now.

SCI: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

PD: When my students come to Pre-K they just don’t know how to do much. I remember the first time, I said “Line up boys and girls,” and they just looked at me. They had no idea what I meant. They learn how to hold a book, pencil, crayons, scissors, and other things. Not only have to hold them but the correct way to use each of these. They come to me not being able to write their name and they leave Pre-K writing their name, counting, learning their letters, and many learn to read, add and subtract. Seeing the excitement on my student’s face when learning new things puts a smile on my face and a song in my heart.

SCI: What inspires you?

PD: My students running in the classroom every morning with open arms ready for a hug and their little smiling faces.

SCI: What’s the best piece of advice you have for your students?

PD: Never Give Up!

SCI: What do you like to do in your free time?

PD: I love spending time with my family and friends. I love the outdoors. I love planting flowers, walking, running, hiking, kayaking, riding bikes, riding 4-wheelers, etc. I love anything that involves the great outdoors.

SCI: Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of Smith County Insider?

PD: Teaching is such a rewarding job. It is a job where you have to give it your all! Whether you feel good or bad, whether you are prepared to teach or not, the students come in your classroom always ready to go. Their little smiling faces, their little hugs, and their little I Love You’s are the best ever heard. In my opinion, the best you can hear.

Thank you for your dedication to your students, Peggy!

Don’t miss Smith County Insider’s next “Educator Spotlight”!

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