Fourth Grade
Lower School Liaison
University of Nebraska Lincoln Teachers College, B.A.

Sometimes in a school and individual can become bedrock.  By that, I mean that their contribution and presence forms the base on which all else seems to be built.  In Bement’s lower school Theresa Mullins is just that kind of teacher.  She seems to, without exception, make a strong connection with each student.  Respect, admiration, support and even affection are a foregone conclusion when it comes to her relationships with parents.  The cooperation, teamwork, and leadership she displays with her fellow teachers looks as natural and effortless as a lower-schooler enjoying recess.

Theresa has been at Bement for sixteen years, beginning as an aide while the school community was recovering from the loss of a parent.  While we have more senior faculty than she, her role has become one that is hard to imagine being filled by anyone else.

A Nebraska native, Theresa began teaching there.  The challenge of public schools in urban Omaha was her first assignment.  This breadth of experience is what seems to make her classroom a comfortable place where kids grow and learn.

She explains that it is the kids and their energy that keeps hers up and engaged in the daily task of developing their talents and intellect.

If there is anything she finds difficult it is the burden of trying to not only be sure her classroom is a safe and enjoyable place to take risk while reaching for understanding, but to be sure that this is the case for each and every student.

It just doesn’t do to call Theresa a fixture at Bement, because being a fourth grade teacher is anything but stationery.  But we all hope she is as close to permanent as any of us can be.  She is a gifted and dynamic teacher who has become an integral part of this school.

By Rob Jackson