THIS QUOTE by author and pastor John C. Maxwell speaks to why a leader is the perfect mix of courage, vulnerability, and strength. Leaders have been there and know what is needed to ensure a successful way through. A good leader shares this knowledge, enabling others to succeed. Former first-grade teacher Rema Bell has shown students the way through and set them up for a successful academic career and livelihood as an early education teacher. Bell was recently named the 23rd recipient of the Clyde W. Smith Jr. Leadership award.
The award, named for the former school board chairman, Clyde W. Smith Jr., who passed in 2010, recognizes individuals who have served in Tullahoma City Schools with strong ties to the community and its education.
Speechless at the nomination, Bell said it meant a great deal to be considered for an award in remembrance of a most beloved friend.
“I was totally speechless, which I rarely am,” she laughed. “I was overwhelmed because I’ve known many of those chosen over the years and hold them in such high esteem. Clyde was a personal friend of mine, and to receive an award in his honor was very gratifying.”
Bell added that it was also gratifying for the award committee to choose someone who represented early education.
“I said from the very beginning, I wanted to think that the reason my name even came up was that I could represent a lot of hard work that takes place in early education,” she said. “We lay the foundation and groundwork for what comes later. The math scores, SAT scores, and all of that is not often attributed to particular teachers that have focused and guided students along the way. I was glad for a little bit of a spotlight upon elementary teachers because I truly believe that’s where it starts. Without that foundation, it’s tough for students to succeed later on. It takes a special person to be in early education, and I am proud to represent those early education teachers who work so diligently for their students.”
Bell, who taught at Bel-Aire Elementary for almost three decades, said teaching was a calling for her. She wanted each student to believe that she had their best interest at heart and wanted to see them succeed long after they left her classroom.
“ I became the resident last room on the left, and that was my room for 28 years,” she explained. “It was more than a job to me. I would carry it home, and my students would essentially become mine. I would tell them, ‘Once you’re mine, you’re mine forever.’” I wanted them to recognize their potential. While the road ahead wouldn’t be easy, they had what it would take to be successful. I tried to prepare them to have everything they needed to take with them. I was a strict teacher, but I was consistent enough that they would know I had their best interests at heart.”
Now retired, Bell enjoys having former students approach her and remind her of their time together.
“Sometimes they have to remind me of who they are because I knew them when they were little,” she said. “But it’s wonderful to see how they have grown and flourished. To have them remember me and to have that kind of positive effect on them is very gratifying.” GN
