Loisann Ham, 2nd-Grade Teacher
Rollingwood Elementary School

Educator Loisann Ham has been a part of Putnam City Schools for more than 40 years, 12 as a student and 31 as a teacher at Rollingwood Elementary. A second-grade teacher, Ham shares how she still loves what she does after 34 years in the classroom:

My grandmother was the person who inspired me to become a teacher. She taught in a one-room school house north of Edmond. She taught children of all ages and grade levels.

I attended Putnam City schools from 1st grade at Putnam City Elementary to being in the first graduating class of Putnam City West High School. Putnam City Schools had been such an important part of my life, it seemed natural to work for a district as great as Putnam City.

Over the years I have worked with many wonderful teachers and principals. They’re lifelong friends.

I have seen many changes in my 34 years of teaching, some good, some bad. However, some things remain the same. Children need love, attention, kind and encouraging words, and a smiling face. They need a secure and loving environment in which to learn and feel successful.

It is extremely important for parents to be involved in their child's education. Parents can reinforce what is being taught and give their child praise and encouragement. I have found that children who read orally at home have self-confidence and establish good study skills.

Learning must be kept fun and exciting for 2nd-grade students. The student must be an active participant in the learning process. Singing songs to emphasize a phonics skill, dancing to count syllables in words, chanting poems to hear phonemic sounds, or snapping and clapping to memorize math facts are just some of the ways to keep students involved.

It is very rewarding to have been a part of so many children's lives. It brings great joy to have taught a child 25 years ago and now have the opportunity to teach his or her son or daughter.

I don’t have one specific success story. I like to think I have 870 success stories. I hope I have made a difference in each one my students’ lives. I know they have certainly made a difference in mine.