The AmeriCorp Program designed to recruit potential teachers while enrolled in college with financial aid and work experience assisted Cami Wood to apply for the Spanish teaching position at Drew Central High School.

Wood, 2002 DCHS graduate, entered the AmeriCorp Program in 2007 while a student at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Upon her 2008 graduation from UAM, Wood sought possible career opportunities while waiting for a position to open.

Applying to Drew Central wasn’t difficult for Wood as “I’ve always had a special place in my heart for DC. Plus there are some pretty wonderful people that make working here a joy” Wood said.

More than one person Wood encountered as a high school student at Drew Central inspired her to become a teacher, Dr. Judy Bynum, Gifted and Talented Coordinator; Beth Thurman, retired history teacher; Dennis Thurman, science teacher; Kay Grant, retired English teacher; and Kim Pitts.

Wood wanted to be a teacher “because I believe in the power of education.”

“I think that learning as much as you possibly can is one of the most important things you will ever do in life and I wanted to share that with others” Wood stated.

Wood teaches Spanish I, II, and ESL classes in ninth through twelve grades. She also serves as the Spanish club adviser.

With the first few weeks of school behind her Wood stated “It was definitely interesting trying to juggle all my responsibilities at once, but I loved it!”