Barb Mattison fell in love with the Benton Community when she was a substitute teacher for 18 weeks at Atkins Elementary. Everyone was so friendly and they made her feel at home. That fall a position opened at Norway Elementary for a 6th grade language arts teacher. She was hired two weeks before school started and was so excited to get the position. Since then Barb has taught a variety of subjects to the 6th grade students including math, reading, and writing.
While teaching she returned to school to obtain her masters degree in Collaborative Teaching and Learning, along with an additional 45 hours of education. Barb served many years on the success four committee and PBIS committee. She was also a data team leader for several years. Barb also received "The Belin-Blank Excellence in Teaching Award."
The years at Norway Elementary have flown by due to her love for the students and her Norway family. She has enjoyed teaching every subject to students of various needs throughout the years. She spent her summers inventing new ways to inspire the students, and to keep her teaching exciting. One of her favorite subjects was teaching writing because she got to know the students better because of their interests. Watching their imagination take flight has been a highlight in her life.
When she retires she plans to spend time with her family and grandchildren. She also looks forward to traveling with her husband, singing with her family's band, and taking stained glass classes. Even though she is retiring, she will cherish the memories she has from her years of teaching at Benton Community.