By Terra Avilla
I distinctly remember being a high schooler and telling myself that when I grow up I wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. Then I, in fact, grew up, and realized that no, Terra, you most definitely do not have the making of an educator, and definitely not one for teaching the littlest of kids.
Luckily for me (and for Susanville), we have plenty of astronomical kindergarten teachers, one in particular, being one of my very great friends, Maria Mankins.
I met Maria when we both volunteered to dance and participate in Lassen Family Services’ Dancing for a Brand New Me.
During this time, I saw what those of you who know her already saw. A beautiful vibrant woman. Full of life.
As we became friends Maria often invited me into her classroom to speak with her students. While I was in the classroom I observed how much her students adored her. Equally important, it was obvious she created a great learning space where her students could thrive.
How she is as a teacher you don’t get to be by watching tutorials, or taking seminars. It is innate. She possesses a quality within her that you simply can’t teach.
Over the years, Maria or ‘Ms. Mankins, has been one of Holiday with a Hero’s greatest supporters. Helping the program identify families, and oftentimes, donating money or time to make the program successful.
I remember on more than one occasion, Maria telling me that if a certain student could make it into our program, she would be willing to sponsor them herself.
This trait of caring for our community doesn’t stop there. Maria can be seen through the community supporting events that support our youth and/or community. Whether that be attending or volunteering for community runs, walks, carnivals, fundraising dinners, Ms. Mankins is always available to donate her time to her community.
Recently Maria lent her talents to Best of Broadway, and I can guarantee every cast member fell in love with that woman’s spirit. There is no missing Maria in a room. That beautiful smile illuminates its surrounding. I can easily see why little kids love her so much.
The more time I spend as an SRO, the more I truly appreciate all that our educators do. Especially the ones like Maria.
Maria is a great friend, and a loving mother. She continues to remain positive, in one of the most difficult times in her teaching career. Still ensuring she shares that bright light with her students, whether it be in person or via a computer screen, due to Covid 19 restrictions. That glow around her can’t be stifled.
We could all learn from Ms. Mankins. One of the reasons I will always love the place where we live.
