Lauren Harkess Wins Educator of the Week

We all know that teaching is much more than imparting knowledge. Teachers often spend as many waking hours with our children as we do! They wear many hats as they comfort and guide their students each day.

St. Dominic School first grade teacher Mrs. Lauren Harkess, known for her fun-loving nature and kind heart, proved recently that when the need for action should arise, she can pivot quickly to a different “hat”.

Ms. Harkess was recently approached by a student who was choking. Her quick reaction to provide life-saving assistance made the difference. For this action and her overall calm, loving demeanor, she was named Educator of the Week by WREG News Channel 3.

Ms. Harkess has been the first-grade teacher at St. Dominic School for 7 years. She is a veteran teacher with an additional 14 years teaching Kindergarten in the former Diocesan Jubilee School St. John. We would love for you to take a minute to get to know her a little better! 

What is your educational background?

I graduated from Lambuth University in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, then pursued my Master of Science degree in Early Literacy.

Why did you want to become an educator?

I wanted to be a teacher from a very young age. A lucrative babysitting job in high school paved the way and truly guided my love of learning and my love of teaching. Once I started my student teaching in first grade, it sealed the deal! I also student taught in 8^th grade, which helped confirm that my heart was with younger children!

What is it like to teach boys all day? 

What can I say? It’s an absolute blast! Boys bring such an energetic spirit to the lessons. You never know what the day will hold. My boys keep me on my toes and ALWAYS keep me laughing and smiling.

What makes the single-gender experience at SDS so effective for learning?

I love that my first graders can thrive in an environment tailored to their needs and interests. At SDS, there is such a strong sense of brotherhood that presents itself at such an early age, often creating life-long friends. I meet people all the time who reflect on their time at St. Dominic with fondness!

What are some life lessons you try to impart on your students, or values you try to model for the boys?

The biggest would probably be kindness and following The Golden Rule. Modeling a growth mindset and the importance of making mistakes, and learning from them, is also high on the list. We practice mindfulness each morning, and it’s truly one of my favorite parts of the day!

What do you hope to accomplish in your job?

I hope my students know how much they are loved and how truly special they are. I once had a principal describe my classroom as “sunshine and rainbows” and that was the absolute best compliment! Each day should be filled with love, joy, and creativity. For my boys to love school and to develop a love of learning is really what I hope to accomplish.

What do you enjoy most about your job/what are your favorite parts of your job?

I love that each day brings new, special moments! I’m entrusted with these brilliant, little minds and in return, they teach me so much, too. At SDS, I love the autonomy and trust that educators are given to meet the needs of each boy. It’s truly unique. Also, I absolutely love keeping up with and reconnecting with students and families and seeing their wonderful accomplishments. Some of my past kindergarten students are now teachers, which is so wild and rewarding!

Which of the Dominican Pillars-Study, Prayer, Community, or Service-is supported most by your role here, or which one impacts you the most/means the most to you?

I would have to say Community is important to me personally and professionally. I drive home to my students that we are a “Firstie family”. And being a part of the bigger SDS community helps my littles feel like they belong. They learn that they have friends, teachers, and staff who care about them. In turn, they also learn kindness, sharing, teamwork, and a sense of safety.

What are you most grateful for?

I’m grateful for so much in life, but I think I must state the obvious and say my precious golden retriever, Lincoln! He’s my main squeeze and brings so much joy (and chaotic energy) to my life! Every year, he’s my Show and Tell for our class Sunshine of Week and has become an honorary Sun on the SDS hallway! I’m an aunt to three precious nephews and am blessed to have my parents right around the corner.

What are your interests outside of the classroom? What are you particularly passionate about?

I’m so fortunate to have an amazing and close group of friends, who I spend a lot of time with! We have a book club, movie group, and a 15 year-running fantasy football team! (I’m currently in 1^st, so cross your fingers I can keep that title!) I also love live music, a good patio and brunch, anything DIY, and going to the dog park with Lincoln.  

Congratulations on being Educator of the Week-What does it mean to you to receive this recognition?

It was such a wonderful surprise It took my brain a minute to register what the News Channel 3 videographer was saying! My boys had the cutest and sweetest reaction to the news, as well. I’m truly blessed to work at such an amazing school. I have wonderful coworkers and some very special boys and girls! Thank you so much for the spotlight-my heart is full!

Watch the WREG video: https://wreg.com/news/lauren-harkess-of-st-dominic-catholic-school-is-this-weeks-tennessee-lottery-educator-of-the-week/