Michelle Midthus' 26-Year Journey of Impact at Crestwood Elementary

   Michelle's journey into the world of teaching began at a young age, inspired by her mother, a revered educator with over five decades of experience. Growing up in a family of teachers, she was surrounded by the love for learning and the joy of imparting knowledge to young minds. After completing her studies in Elementary and Special Education at the University of Northern Iowa, Michelle embarked on her teaching career, eager to make a difference in the lives of her students.

   In her extensive career, Michelle has encountered various challenges and triumphs, each of which has shaped her teaching style and philosophy. She values the importance of building strong relationships with her students, creating a sense of community within her classroom, and instilling a love for learning that goes beyond the textbooks.

   One of Michelle's most cherished traditions is the Morning Meeting, a time for students to come together, build relationships, and start the day on a positive note. This daily ritual sets the tone for a day of learning and collaboration in Michelle's classroom. Reflecting on her most memorable teaching moments, she shares, "Those moments are usually when we stray from the lesson plans and something funny or unexpected happens, and we are laughing."

   Another tradition close to Michelle's heart is having each student write a letter to themselves in the last month of the school year. "I have each student write a letter to themselves the last month of the school year.  I hold onto it until the month they graduate high school and I mail it to their home address.  I have been doing this for many years.  I don’t read the letters, but I have had kids come back and tell me what they wrote.  I had one student set a goal that he wanted to join the Marines after he graduated.  The week he got his letter, his mom reached out to tell me he had just enlisted in the Marines.  That was so cool, a few tears were shed”, shared Midthus.

   Outside of school, Michelle finds solace in spending time with her family, including her husband, Brian, and their two daughters, Mackenzie and Madison. Together, they enjoy attending sporting events, boating, and watching movies. Michelle also finds relaxation in painting holiday ceramics as a stress-reliever and unwinding on her porch or deck with a good book.

   Reflecting on her 26 years of teaching, Michelle understands the importance of balance and choosing battles wisely. She defines success not only by academic achievements but also by the lasting impact she leaves on her students. For Michelle, teaching is a calling, a way to make a positive difference in the lives of young learners who look up to her with admiration and respect.

   When asked if she had anything she’d like to share with the community she added, "I have been teaching for 25 years now.  Schools of today are not schools of 25 years ago, or even of 10 years ago.  The world is a very different place and it is not only because of COVID.  Social media, screen time, severe behaviors, mental health crisis, and trauma are all shaping our children.  Teachers want to help, but we are only one part of the equation.”

 

A few Midthus Fun Facts:

- Coffee or tea?

Coffee - black

- Pen or pencil?

Pencil - sharp

- Windows open or closed?

Open

- Group work or solo deep focus?

Group

- Favorite season?

Summer

- Chalkboard, whiteboard, or digital?

Digital

- Dream snow day activity?

Read a book and drink hot coffee

 

   As each school day at Crestwood Elementary comes to a close, Michelle stands in her classroom, a pillar of dedication in a world full of challenges and uncertainties. To her students, she is more than a teacher—she is a mentor, a guide, and a friend. And as they walk out of her classroom, she hopes that they always carry with them the knowledge that their third-grade teacher cares deeply about them and believes in their potential to achieve great things. Michelle's legacy at Crestwood Elementary continues to inspire generations of students as she embarks on her 26th year of teaching with the same passion and commitment that has defined her career.