In the heart of Fair Grove Elementary, the sound of music fills the halls, bringing joy and inspiration to students each day. This is largely thanks to Heather Lumley, a loving, dedicated music teacher at Fair Grove.
When Lumley first attended college she was unsure of what her passion was. Deciding between the medical field and teaching, she followed her heart and chose teaching seeing that she wanted a career that constantly brought energy, love, and laughter into her life.
After receiving her Bachelor’s degree from Drury, she started teaching at Fair Grove as a paraprofessional. She explained, “The only place I have ever taught has been at Fair Grove.”
She continued, “Around 18 years ago, I accepted a position teaching first grade at Fair Grove. I discovered that I absolutely loved teaching children to read and watching them grow in this area.”
She was then offered a new position as a part time elementary music teacher. She taught music part time for 13 years and put in the hours to show her dedication. Lumley explains,“I never felt like I was just a part time teacher. The six hours I was at school, I tried to show up and give my best to the kiddos.”
After previous music teacher Cindy Sparks decided to completely retire after teaching at Fair Grove for 43 years, Lumley accepted the position as the full time music teacher.
Lumley has always loved her hometown and she enjoys giving back to the community where she grew up. She stated, “Fair Grove has always been my happy place.” She grew up attending Fair Grove School district from kindergarten through 12th grade and she married her high school sweetheart who also attended Fair Grove.
Her colleagues and students are very thankful for her and the love and joy she shares with everyone. Olivia Holt (1) shows her appreciation by stating, “Thank you for being so nice everyday.” And Jayden Miller (1) added, “Thank you for caring for everybody.”
When teaching she enjoys keeping high energy and making learning fun. Lumley explained, “Typically, we have fun learning music and the classroom is full of joy.” Her students describe her as being sweet, nice and so energetic.
Lumley’s dedication to education inspires all of Fair Grove Elementary, which is shaping future generations. Lumley stated, “The blessings of teaching always come back to me ten fold.” As she looks forward to many more years of teaching, she remains committed to inspiring her students and preparing them for the future.
