CHELSEY TIPPIT : “ I had a wonderful experience throughout my education and had several teachers that left a mark . One who stands out the most was my 4th grade teacher , Wendy Bowman . I was part of her first class , and she lovingly referred to us as her “ Guinea pigs ”. She was fresh out of college and had more ideas than class time . She wanted nothing more than to see every single one of her students thrive and she poured into every child whether they were labeled as a troublemaker or not . I think our 4th grade class taught her just as much as she taught us that year . Ms . Bowman followed me throughout my school career and would send cards to recognize my achievements . Even into adulthood , we have kept in touch .”
DR . JOE LOPEZ : “ I recall and have great memories of Mr . John Warren at Mims Elementary in Mission CISD . He was my sixth-grade teacher and I will always remember how kind , supportive , and enthusiastic he was to serve as our teacher . I know that without his love and guidance , I would not be where I am today . Mr . Warren was one of the individuals in my life that inspired me to become a teacher .”
Q :
As a parent , who ’ s an example of a teacher or what is an example of a school program that made a difference in the life of one of your children and why ?
JEANETTE ROWLAND : “ As a parent , the Iron Lions Solar Car team and coaches had a huge impact on my son in his junior and senior year . The three coaches had a great way of building a relationship with him to keep connected . They also checked in with him postgraduation on his career path . As a mom , this is very important as at that age it can be hard to find nonparent role models .”
CHELSEY TIPPIT : “ The athletic program has been great for all of my kids . Athletics has taught them how to work with their teammates to accomplish a common goal . Athletics has helped with their social skills and encourages them to interact with kids they might not be friends with outside of the athletic program . Through athletics they have met friends , developed leadership skills , learned responsibility and accountability , and gained much needed confidence .”
DR . JOE LOPEZ : “ I wholeheartedly believe that our counselors serve such a huge role in our students and kids ’ lives . I have always been impressed with school counselors and how much they give to our campuses , students , parents , and the community .”
Q :
What is something about you or your background that you wish more people knew or understood ?
JEANETTE ROWLAND : “ My original plan upon high school graduation was anything but education . As I continued into my role as a parent and not loving my career time commitments , I was offered an opportunity to become a High School teacher and I have never looked back .”
CHELSEY TIPPIT : “ I grew up in a small town and graduated from a 2A school . In my hometown , the school district was , and to this day still is , the center of everything . The school district has immense support from the entire community and there is very little negativity towards the district . School spirit is everywhere !
“ I have been shocked at the difference in moving from a small 2A district to a 5A . Community support is one of my biggest goals in serving on the Board of Trustees . I look forward to Greenville gaining pride in our schools and recognizing the positive things happening across our entire district . I hope that our community can shift their mindsets and see these accomplishments ! I hope that our children will be proud to be Lions !”
DR . JOE LOPEZ : “ My family and I firmly believe in being involved in the community in which we live and work . As the superintendent
GREENVILLE LIFE 13 SUMMER 2024