For Staff
Teacher Spotlight
At the Grandview School District we appreciate our teachers. In the Teacher Spotlight section, we will recognize incoming teachers, new teachers, and veteran teachers alike. Posted monthly, we would like our GSD community of families to get to know our teachers better. Watch monthly for our teachers, and let's support their shine!
April 2025
Helen Andrews
1st Grade Teacher at Harriet Thompson Elementary
Meet Ms. Helen Andrews, who started teaching in 1996, and has been at our Harriet Thompson Elementary for 28 years. Helen attended Heritage University, where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Arts degrees, along with an ESL/Bilingual endorsement. Helen says, “I began my teaching career in 1996 at Harriet Thompson Elementary, and I’ve now been teaching for 28 years. I absolutely love teaching first grade!”
We we asked Ms. Andrews to describe her favorite part of teaching, as well as what are some of her ‘proud’ moments to which she replied, “Every year, I gain a new family. I get to know each of my students and their families, and that connection is so special to me.” She continues, “My proudest moments are when my students 'get it'—when they finally understand something new. You can see the happiness in their eyes and the smiles on their faces. It truly warms your heart, especially when they’ve worked hard and finally succeeded.”
Ms. Andrews also mentions that throughout the years, she has had the pleasure of working with so many wonderful colleagues, and have learned so much from them. Helken says, “I thank the Lord for those opportunities and the people who’ve supported me along the way.”
When asked what she would tell her ‘first-year teacher self,’ she replied, “Take the time to truly get to know your students. You spend so much time with them each day, and building that bond creates a classroom where they feel safe and loved.”
The advice Ms. Andrews would give a new, incoming teacher is, “Be organized, put in the necessary time, but also make sure to take care of yourself. Don’t get so caught up in school that you forget to enjoy your own life—especially if you have a family. Cherish your time off, and always show appreciation to those who help you along the way.”
Thank you Ms. Helen Andrews for your dedication to our students, staff, and families. Your wisdom, care, and love for teaching the first grade is palpable and will leave a lasting impact.