Among us, there are hundreds of stories that include winding, soul-searching, and even surprising paths that led to becoming a teacher. For Brent Hawkins, that story is of a career that began with graphic design for the engineering department of a chassis manufacturer – hand drawing exploded isometric views of assemblies for parts catalogs and service manuals, working his way to merchandise design and newsletters. Then, at age 40, the economic downturn threw a curveball that left him looking for a new line of work.
“I had family members who worked in schools. I had always enjoyed working with children in places like church, at my child's daycare, etc.,” he said. “At 40 years old, I made the decision to get my master's degree in teaching and begin my second career. While earning my master's, one of my professors told me quite frankly, ‘They're not going to put you in 4K.’ I became more determined to make it happen.”
And thus, one of D7’s most talented 4K teachers found his way into his own classroom and into the hearts of his students, parents, and colleagues.
It’s very much a “coming home” for Brent. “I am a product of District 7 schools. My parents and siblings are products of District 7 schools. Many of my relatives worked in District 7. Decades ago, my grandfather managed a peach farm on the very same land where Spartanburg High School sits today. My mother was born in a house on the same site. I love the community and I love the people. District 7, in one form or another, has always been with me and a part of me.”
Its not everyday that you find a male 4K teacher, of course, and Brent hopes to see more of them in the future. “I encourage other men to teach in the younger grades. It is extremely rewarding to educate children beginning their academic careers, and to get to know the whole family and share in their lives. Having a wonderful female co-teacher in the class helps us to be one of the more diverse teams. We feel this allows us to make deeper connections with families.”
Over the years, Brent has been surprised to discover just how much 4-year-olds can achieve. “We've had children learn to read fluently on 1st and 2nd grade levels, experience a little art history, gain basics in coding, perform some impressive science experiments, and work with real hand tools. We've even taught a little cursive writing to one student who was curious about learning to do it.” But the kids aren’t the only ones learning! “Their eagerness to learn everything about everything keeps me on my toes. Because of my students, I have had uncounted new experiences. In many ways, they have helped me to grow and take risks.”
From the most rewarding moments (“After working on skills for months, the children suddenly brighten up and are elated to be able to do things independently and expand on their learning.”) to the most challenging (“While we are teaching the students to gain independence, we are also trying to teach them to work together as a cohesive team. Sometimes, when young children still have a lot of lingering egocentric thoughts, that can be a difficult concept.”) – he is there for it. And the relationships he builds with our youngest learners stay with him – and with them – for life.
“I have been fortunate to keep those connections with many of my former students. Some are now studying music, playing on the Viking Football team, and even planning for a degree in teaching. Oftentimes, it shocks me to see them after several years and have a grown-up student standing before me. In my heart, they will always be the sweet four-year-old I shared so much time with. I am very proud of all my students.”