ROCHELLE — In less than a month, Mary Zamastil will begin a new chapter when she retires from May School.

Throughout her two decades as a teacher there have been many changes, mostly with technology, as the days of chalkboards and white boards have evolved into smart boards.

Much like others in the same career, Zamastil says teaching has been a rewarding experience.

“One of the biggest things I love is seeing the smiles on students’ faces and the light bulb going on when learning takes place,” the fourth grade teacher said. “As a teacher, every day brings something different. I love the variety of my job.”

Zamastil says she likes the opportunity to start fresh each day and to be able to welcome the eager faces of her students. Mostly it is the interaction with them that she enjoys.

“It feels really good when a student gives me a hug, shares an important part of their life with me, or presents me with a picture drawn especially for me! It is also gratifying when former students stop in to say hello,” Zamastil said enthusiastically.

Beginnings

Zamastil said she has always wanted to be a teacher, recalling the times she would play “school” as a child. She also said she enjoyed school growing up and at the time hoped one day she would make an impact on students just like the teachers did for her.

Following high school Zamastil attended Iowa State for two years, stopping to get married. With determination, she did return.

“I said I could always go back, which I did, graduating from [Northern Illinois University] 22 years later,” Zamastil reflected. “It was difficult working, raising a family and going to school but I persevered. It was a really good life lesson for my children to stay the course in their pursuit of higher education and follow their dreams.”

She earned her masters degree from NIU in 2008.

Zamastil began her career in the Rochelle Elementary School District first as a lunchroom aide, then in a couple of classroom aide positions. After a couple of long-term substitute teaching positions, she was hired at May School where she has taught ever since.

Plans

Along with traveling to visit her children, Zamastil plans to continue to enjoy reading and working in the yard, mentioning there might be some new interests to pursue. She also intends to do some substitute work in the schools as well.

“Over the course of my career, it has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of the dedicated and professional employees of District 231,” added Zamastil.