DAVENPORT

Shawna Thompson is a second grade teacher at Davenport Elementary.  She has worked in the school system since 1999. She started as a substitute teacher, was hired as a paraprofessional in 2011 and in 2015, was hired as a first grade teacher. She began teaching second grade in 2016. Shawna grew up in Pawnee, Oklahoma where she graduated high school before attending Oklahoma State University and Southern Nazarene. 

Q  What led you to teaching?
A  For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a teacher. I was fortunate to have many great teachers throughout my childhood but my 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Rice, made a lasting impact. She made learning fun and as her student, I felt special. When I was in high school, my sister became a teacher. That helped me decide, I wanted to be a teacher too!

Q  What would you say most motivates you to teach?
A  Seeing the joy a child derives from learning something new or grasping a concept they have struggled with.

Q  What are you most excited or passionate about?
A  Reading! I want to create a love for reading and make learning fun. I want school to be a place where kids want to be!

Q  What do you find most challenging about being a teacher?
A  I think the most challenging part of being a teacher is worrying about your students. Am I meeting all of their needs? Am I doing enough for each student?

Q  What's the best thing to happen since you started teaching?
A  The relationships that have been created throughout this journey.

Q  What might students and parents be surprised to know about you?
A  I’m a very shy person. Standing in front of a group of children is easy but if I have to talk to a group of adults, I’m a nervous wreck!

Q  What profession other than your own would you most like to attempt?
A  Probably a family or children’s counselor.

Q  What are three things every teacher should have?
A  Flair pens, comfy shoes and a support system! I’m blessed to have a family who support and encourage me when I come up with crazy ideas for my classroom. I also have coworkers who have become some of my best friends.

Shawna and her husband, Brian celebrated their 25th anniversary in March. They have three children, Faith, Ian, Grace and recently gained a son in law, Austin, who married Faith in March of 2020. They hope to have grandkids soon! They also have four fur babies… three dogs and a cat named Andy. They attend Life.Church in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and enjoy traveling together, especially to the beach. Seaside, Florida is our favorite little spot!