Petersen's career for the Davis School District began in 1981 when she started teaching at Crestview Elementary. She has since taught every grade from first to eighth, has worked as principal and as the director of education at Clearfield Job Corps. She has been serving as an assistant superintendent since 2004.
Petersen says that she has had many wonderful experiences over the years, and that one of her favorite memories was when she saw her school come together to help a student.
"I remember one student in my class who had a severe speech problem," Petersen said. " The school speech pathologist worked with him regularly and all of the other fourth graders helped him, with gentle reminders, to pronounce whatever sound he was to be working on that week. That sense of caring, responsibility, and community typifies the spirit of a great school. Years later, when I was a principal, that very tall and very grown up boy paid me a visit. His speech was perfect."
Upon retirement, Petersen plans to continue working and learning, just doesn't know where, yet. What she does know, however, is that she'll miss working for the district.
"I can't say enough about the Davis School District personnel," she said. "Our strength is in the caliber of people who work here."
As for advice to teachers just beginning their career, Petersen says to always keep learning.
"Research in education continues to provide new information about how students learn, and it is the responsibility of educators to continue to be aware of and utilize best practices in their classrooms," she said. "Model the enthusiasm for lifelong learning that you hope to instill in our students."
sryther@davisclipper.com
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