I was a wide-eyed, frightened little six year old, starting my first day of school in a new town. I didn’t know anybody, and they didn’t know me. I was extremely shy, so making friends was difficult. I often found myself alone and scared. But there was one teacher at Richmond that wanted to change that. Her name was Mrs. Beaster–and she was my guidance counselor. 

She is a combination of your friend, mentor, and even your grandparent. Her advice is as useful as learning how to swim. She helped me adapt to my new school and introduced me to the kids in my grade and helped me make friends. For once, I felt special. She let me assist her in organizing events at our school like Jump Rope for Heart. By then, I was in third grade and with her aide my confidence was rising. She made me feel important and showed me that I could do anything.

And she didn’t just help me out. Mrs. Beaster helped countless kids overcome their problems, and her office became the official safe haven of Richmond School. Her extremely messy and cluttered office (that slightly resembled the aftermath of a tornado) was a sign that she was was always working on a new project for our school. She organized events like Fine Arts Day and the Career Fair every year. And I still have the art projects that I made during Fine Arts Day displayed in my house.

As I got older, middle school became hard. Her office became almost like a second home for me. I found myself spending a lot of time in there. She could always tell when something was bothering me and would say, “How about you come to my office later today?” She let me vent, laugh, and even cry. She helped me get through one of the most toughest times in my life. And without her help, I would be in a very different place right now. 

Connie Beaster is the reason I have a fond memory of elementary school. She helped me in ways I will always remember. And I can’t thank her enough. She made my confidence soar and showed me how strong I really was.  Even though she is now five years retired from Richmond, I just want to thank her again for everything she has done for not only me, but everyone else at Richmond. Here’s to you, Mrs. Beaster!