Lauren Garvey, a 2018 JHS graduate, has found joy in watching Love Elementary School third graders grow in her first year of teaching.

For Lauren Garvey, a third grade teacher at Love Elementary School, the path to the classroom wasn’t a straight line — but it was one shaped by experience, reflection, and a clear sense of purpose.

A 2018 graduate of Jamestown High School, Garvey initially pursued a different academic path, earning her undergraduate degree in anthropology from State University at Geneseo and a master’s degree in biological anthropology from the University at Buffalo before later completing her Master of Science in Teaching from SUNY Potsdam. It was during a year spent substitute teaching, however, that everything clicked.

“My time spent subbing in the classroom made me fall in love with working with kids and watching their spark flourish when they are having fun while learning,” Garvey said.

“I really enjoyed building relationships with students and seeing their confidence grow over time. Those experiences showed me how important it is to make learning engaging and meaningful.”

Now in her first year at Love Elementary School, Garvey is focused on creating a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn — a place where taking risks and making mistakes are all part of the process.

“I hope to create an environment where my students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn, and where they are not afraid to try new things, make mistakes, and grow each day,” she said.

“We’re really lucky to have Lauren at Love,” said Michael Brown, Love Elementary School principal. “She goes above and beyond for our students, always trying new ways to reach every child, and she’s a true team player. She brings great ideas to our school and has already made a real impact in her classroom — we’ve seen strong growth in both reading and math this year.”

Returning to Jamestown to teach was an intentional decision, rooted in a desire to give back to the community that helped shape her.

“I wanted to come back to my hometown to teach and give back to the community that helped shape who I am today,” Garvey said. “Jamestown has always been important to me, and I want to be a positive role model for my students. I hope to inspire them to strive for greatness, believe in themselves, and work toward their future goals and dreams, just like others once encouraged me.”

That sense of purpose drives her daily work in the classroom, where she is constantly looking for new ways to connect with students and make learning meaningful.

“What motivates me is watching my students truly understand what we are learning and encouraging them to always do their best,” Garvey said. “I love finding new ways to reach different learners and make lessons fun and meaningful. Seeing that ‘spark’ when something finally clicks for them is the most rewarding feeling. It reminds me why I chose this career and pushes me to keep trying new ideas so I can meet the needs of all my students.”

Throughout the school year, Garvey said one of the most meaningful experiences has been watching her students grow — not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well.

“The highlight of this school year has been watching my students grow–not only as learners, but also in their everyday lives,” she said. “It has been amazing to see their confidence build, their independence increase, and their friendships develop. Watching them overcome challenges and celebrate their successes has made this year incredibly rewarding for me.”

Garvey credits much of her success in her first year to the strong support system around her, both inside and outside the classroom.

“My coworker, Amy Swanson, has made the biggest difference for me this year,” she said. “No matter what I needed or had questions about, she was always willing to support me, guide me, and share her experience. My soon-to-be mother-in-law has also taught me so much over the past few years by working alongside me during my schooling and while I was subbing. In addition, my family and fiancé have been a huge support during my first year, helping me come up with ideas, encouraging me through challenges, and even delivering treats for my students. Having such a strong support system has made a big impact on my confidence and growth as a teacher.”

At the heart of it all, Garvey said, is the sense of community she has found at Love Elementary School.

“I love my students and the sense of family I have found here at Love,” she said. “From the very beginning, I was welcomed with open arms and made to feel right at home. The staff is incredibly supportive, and it truly feels like we are all working together for the success of our students. Being part of such a caring and positive community makes coming to work every day something I look forward to.”