Often looking back on our school years, we can point to teachers that have made a difference in our lives. I was blessed to have several teachers who helped me become the person I am today. One of those teachers was Mrs. La Placa or, as I knew her, Mrs. Brown. She is retiring this year after forty years of teaching in Hernando County Schools.
Mrs. La Placa was my fourth-grade teacher, and she was a bright young, energetic teacher fresh out of college. Her enthusiasm was contagious and made you look forward to school. There were years when school was a chore, but the fourth grade was not one of those for me.
At our twenty-fifth high school reunion, several of us were discussing our favorite teachers throughout the years, and she was one of the names mentioned. More than three decades later, her impact on our lives has not been forgotten.
We respected Mrs. La Placa, and therefore her approval was important to us. We all competed to earn gold star stickers that were added next to our names. We also played a game where you asked a question and tossed someone the ball. They had to answer the question before catching it, or they were out. These little additions made school much more enjoyable.
This year Mrs. La Placa received the gold award for Elementary teacher in the Hernando Sun Readers’ Choice competition, so many of her former students, parents, and coworkers feel the same way as I do. It was exciting seeing all the support she received from the community.
Congratulations, Mrs. La Placa, on a marvelous career as a teacher. You made school a brighter place with your energy and positive attitude.
