Laura Bonsall has dedicated 17 — going on 18 — years of her life to being an educator and spending time in her “happy place” — the classroom.

She began teaching in August 2005, the year Hurricane Katrina hit. She taught at Kate Middleton Elementary in Jefferson Parish, where she taught first grade for one year and kindergarten for five years.

She now teaches kindergarten at Cypress Cove, where she has been for the last 11 years.

“Teaching kindergarten in Room 8 at Cypress Cove is where I want to remain until I retire!”

Bonsall graduated from Mt. Camel Academy in New Orleans in May 2001.

She then went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a certification in early childhood education.

Her greatest inspiration was her mother, who taught for 29 years.

“When I was little, I would play ‘school’ for hours in my room with my dolls, using a real roll book, stickers and a dry erase board. My mom always encouraged me to develop my love of education,” she explained. “I have always known that I wanted to become a teacher and never once doubted my teaching journey thanks to her. I was able to visit her classroom during the school year and truly witness her passion for teaching. These visits solidified my desire to become an elementary educator.”

Bonsall is aware she is often a student’s first structured educator, and she takes this into consideration when interacting with her students.

“Establishing a good bond with my students continues through the years. As they grow, I love seeing them at the ballpark, grocery, church, and around town. Our special connection stays strong through the years, as these interactions truly confirm that I have chosen the right career path.”

For Bonsall, seeing students experience “ah ha” moments is the most enjoyable experience one can have in the education field.

“I enjoy seeing growth from all students, such as writing their names, learning letter sounds, and learning to read,” she said. “When a student understands the skill and purpose of the lesson, it makes my heart proud.”

Her educator’s philosophy is that all students can learn. “It is my job to connect with each one on a personal level to best provide their education. Every student is different. Therefore, I try to teach in multiple ways to best accommodate all learning styles.”

Bonsall appreciates her students for continuously teaching her to be a better teacher, mother and person.

“They teach me that it’s OK to laugh, have fun, be silly, let loose and to simply be kind to one another. I enjoy watching the innocence of young children playing at recess and helping each other in the classroom.”

She wants future teachers to “be kind, stay strong, love hard, listen intently, and to be open to continually learning.”

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children and husband.

“We enjoy spending time on the water as well as family game and movie nights at home. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to be three things: a wife, a mother and a teacher. I am truly blessed to be living my dream every single day!”