Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Week: Cynthia Droke
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BETHEL SPRINGS, Tenn. — Cynthia Droke teaches language arts and history at Bethel Springs Elementary School. The McNairy County native started teaching almost 26 years ago. “When I was in junior high, I had an eighth grade history teacher who I thought was the greatest person in the whole wide world, and it just set me on fire to be a teacher,” Droke said. Droke currently teaches eighth grade and said she spent the majority of her career working with junior high students. “You make a connection with them,” she said. “They get your jokes. You can say things to them they understand.” Droke said her favorite thing about teaching is the kids who come back. “You think you don’t make an impression, and 10 years down the road they come back to show you their kids or they come back and show you their diploma,” she said. Droke graduated from McNairy Central High School and then attended Freed Hardeman University. Droke remains devoted to the community where she grew up and her students. “They probably won’t remember the content, and that’s OK, but if they know that I care and that I support them, that’s what I want,” she said. Droke said there is never a dull moment and every day is different. As for teaching junior high, Droke said, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Droke will be eligible for the statewide Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Month Award. To vote for her or any of the other nominees, visit seehowitaddsup.com. To nominate a teacher for the WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News weekly award, email us at educator@wbbjtv.com.
