Torrie Singmaster, 24, is a new first-grade teacher at Winfield Scott Elementary School.

She earned her  Bachelor of Art in Elementary Education from Ottawa University.

She has bee a paraprofessional educator and substitute teacher for USD 234 for three years.

Singmaster’s hometown is Fort Scott.

Her family includes her husband, Dakota,  and two sons,  William, 3, and Tyson, 1.

In her free time, Singmaster likes going on vacation to Branson, golfing, and taking their boys new places.

“I also coach girls basketball at Fort Scott Middle School,” she said.

How did you become an educator?

“I started subbing at Winfield Scott and fell in love with the school and students. I completed my degree this past May thru Ottawa University while working for the school district as a paraprofessional and coach.”

Is there someone who inspired you to teach?

“I honestly can say the students I started working with inspired me to teach. I always loved school and had many great teachers that I can look up to. I also wanted a career that I could make a difference in children’s lives and be able to be there for my little family.”

What is the best part of teaching for you?

“I love being able to make connections with students. I have worked with many different ages over the last three years. Elementary-aged students are so full of life and joy. Seeing them so excited about learning makes me excited every day to walk into my classroom. I can’t wait to see each student get to the point where they are growing in their confidence as a student and as a person.”

What are the greatest challenges?

“The greatest challenge as a first-year teacher this year is definitely the unknowns. Being a first-year teacher during a pandemic is not something you learn during college. I am so blessed to have the support from my family and my school family. The staff at Winfield Scott and USD 234 are amazing and I cannot wait to start and continue my journey as an educator in Fort Scott.”