TEACHER: Alison Ray

SCHOOL: Elberta Elementary School

SUBJECTS TAUGHT: Pre-K

SOMETHING UNUSUAL ABOUT YOURSELF: I tap and jazz with Sharon’s School of Dance. I’m not very good at it, but it’s fun!

“I wish every child could have the experience of Pre-K,” says Alison Ray, Pre-K teacher at Elberta Elementary School. “It’s very hands-on, organized play. It’s amazing how much they change and accomplish in nine months.”

Ray has just finished her 20^th year teaching, all at Elberta Elementary.

Ray decided to teach because she had a wonderful fifth grade teacher.

“She taught me what teaching is all about – making dreams come true,” Ray says. “I’ve enjoyed it, making a difference in these baby’s lives.

Getting to be the start of their school career, is Ray’s favorite part about teaching.

“I get to make the best impression—learning is important.”

Ray is always positive in everything she does.

“It’s my goal,” she says. “Life’s too short to spend time unhappy.”

She loves Elberta Elementary School, too.

“I love working here,” Ray says. “It’s the best place to work. Everyone make it a joy and a blessing. We are a family here.”

When Ray isn’t teaching, she spends time with her husband Andy Ray, Battalion Fire Chief in Daphne, and her three children, Savannah, 15; Caroline, 14; and Bryant, 4. They enjoy spending time with each other’s families and going to the beach.