Lauren Roy
Third Grade RLA/Social Studies Teacher, Red Lick Elementary
For Lauren Roy, the spark of becoming an educator all began during her kindergarten year at Carver Kindergarten, where her teacher, Mrs. Eitel, would allow Lauren to stay up during nap time and assist her with various projects. “I absolutely loved being her little assistant, helping with papers, passing things out, and just being part of whatever she needed. From that moment on, I was hooked,” Lauren says.
Then in second grade, another influential and kind teacher, Mrs. Vandergriff, would touch Lauren’s life. Mrs. Vandergriff was known for building strong relationships with her students and always making learning a fun experience. “I remember thinking even back then, ‘I want to be just like her one day.’ Those early experiences planted the seed, and it never left me,” Lauren says. From that second-grade moment on, Mrs. Vandergriff would become a role model for Lauren. “She was incredibly supportive, and her kindness and dedication showed me what a great teacher looks like and inspired me to create that same positive environment for my students. She made learning exciting and made every student feel valued, and that’s the kind of teacher I strive to be every day,” she says.
“School was so much fun for me growing up. I was the teacher’s pet, always asking to help with anything and everything. Some of my favorite memories come from the GT program, where we spent the entire day on a different campus. It was such a cool environment. We had bean bags, dimmed lights, and worked on fun projects that challenged us alongside other kids who shared our love of learning. I also have many fond memories tied to learning and music. There are still several songs I learned in school that I remember to this day.” Lauren says. The wonderful school experiences, combined with her influential teachers, laid the groundwork for Lauren’s educational path. After high school, Lauren earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University–Texarkana and became certified to teach Early Childhood through sixth grade (EC–6). She also completed the Texas Reading Academy, which helped deepen her understanding of the science of teaching reading. That training significantly strengthened Lauren’s literacy instruction and provided her with additional tools to support her students’ growth as readers.
After graduating from college, Lauren began her first official teaching job at Red Lick Elementary School and is celebrating her fifth year. She teaches third-grade RLA/Social Studies. “I truly work with the best colleagues in town. They’re supportive in every way, always ready to help, share ideas, or just be there when you need a little encouragement. It feels more like a family than just a job. Our leadership is the same way. I know I can go to my bosses for anything, and they’ll show up with guidance, support, and a willingness to help however they can. That kind of leadership makes a huge difference,” Lauren says. “The support doesn’t stop with staff, either. We have the most wonderful students and families. The kids bring a great deal of energy and joy into the classroom, and their families are incredibly involved and supportive. It’s a team effort all around, and I feel fortunate to be a part of it.”
Lauren truly believes in the power of education to change lives. “Seeing that ‘aha’ moment when a student finally understands something they’ve been struggling with is like watching a light turn on. I strive to make a difference in children’s lives, even if it’s just in small ways, because those little moments can add up to something really meaningful. I love being able to support kids not just academically, but also emotionally, and help them grow into confident, curious learners. Teaching lets me combine my passion for learning with my desire to make a positive impact, and that’s what keeps me motivated no matter how challenging the day gets,” she says.
Lauren describes her teaching style as supportive and hands-on. She creates a classroom environment where students feel safe taking risks and asking questions. She meets each child where they are, using a variety of strategies to make learning engaging and accessible for everyone. She fosters a positive and inclusive classroom by building strong relationships and ensuring that every student feels seen and valued. “I set clear expectations for kindness and respect from day one and model those behaviors myself. I also make it a point to celebrate each student’s unique strengths and backgrounds, incorporating activities and discussions that honor diversity,” she says. By encouraging teamwork and open communication, Lauren enables students to learn from one another and feel comfortable sharing their ideas. When her students know they belong and their voices matter, it creates a classroom where everyone can thrive.
Teachers like Lauren understand the value of parental and community support. “When parents stay involved by communicating regularly, encouraging their kids, and reinforcing what they’re learning at school, it makes a big difference in student success,” Lauren says. “Community support, whether it’s through volunteering, attending school events, or providing resources, helps create a stronger learning environment for everyone. When teachers, parents, and the community work together, it builds a powerful team that truly benefits the students.”
As Lauren looks forward to a new year with her students at Red Lick, she is focused on forming connections with them and showing them how much she cares. “I try to be approachable and open so they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Building trust takes time, but I ensure that I am consistent, kind, and patient. I also enjoy discovering common interests and celebrating their successes, whether big or small. When students know you believe in them and truly care, those connections happen naturally,” Lauren says.
Did you know this about Lauren?
Her primary professional goals include learning new teaching strategies, especially in literacy and student engagement. However, did you know that she may also wish to become a counselor one day?
Lauren’s teaching job is not her only occupation; she and her family also own Cool Tanz and Spa in Texarkana, USA, as well as in White Hall, Arkansas.
If Lauren could take her students on any field trip, it would be to KidZania Dallas. “It’s an interactive, kid-sized city where kids can role-play over 100 real-world professions—from firefighting and acting to piloting a plane or performing surgery. They even earn their own currency, kidZos, and get to make decisions that help them learn important life skills,” Lauren says.
Lauren’s quote to live by is, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” It reminds her that even small actions can make a big difference, especially when working with kids.
Lauren knows all of the lyrics to the songs “Lead Me to the Cross” and “I Can Only Imagine.” They are songs that bring comfort and inspiration to Lauren!
Her favorite apps include ClassDojo, Google Calendar, Gmail, Remind, and Raptor!