Hay Public School said a fond farewell to Mrs Pearson last Friday, in a day where she needed the tissues close on hand.

After starting her career in 1982, she says pursuing teaching was always what she wanted to do.

“I really enjoyed learning and being involved with everyone, and being teacher was they way I thought I could do that,” she said.

Starting off as district relief teacher, she became permanent in 1984 at Hay Public School, where she could pass on her love of maths, sport, history and geography to year 5 students.

“It’s great to be able to connect with the students and broaden their knowledge of the world around them,” she said.

“Call me old fashioned, but in today’s world there is such a focus on technology, data and assessments, it’s even more important to have those personal interactions and really know your students.”

Over the years, she has taught the children of her first students, and having that intimate knowledge of their family and their life was incredibly rewarding for her.

“I didn’t teach any grandchildren, thank goodness I haven’t been there that long, but being a part of their lives in such a way – nothing can compare.”

The fact every day was different for her is something she say’s she will miss the most.

She believes her students will remember her love of chalk boards and her distinctive cursive writing.

In an ever changing teaching world, Mrs Pearson encourages new teachers or those endeavoring to become teachers to never forget the face to face interactions that enrich both the teachers and the children’s life.

“Always strive to do your best, set your goals and value your expectations.”

Kel Boots remembers having “Mrs P” as a teacher when she was still in infants at Public School in 1994 to1996, and says she will always remember listening to stories about her family and sports events close to her heart.

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“I don’t remember all my teachers but I definitely remember Mrs Pearson. She was always encouraging, wanting you to strive high and grow on your knowledge,” Ms Boots said.

“Mrs P also had a way about her that you knew what she wanted you to do and you were scared to not have it completed.”

Mrs Pearson is looking forward to spending her retirement with both of her parents and family, spending quality time with them while not having to get up early to work, as well as continuing her passion for all things sport related.