Marty Davis, Spring Lake Elementary

Updated nomination: September 2023

“Marty Davis has been chasing the Gingerbread man through the halls of Springlake Elementary for over 20 years. She’s led over 1000 kindergarten kids on that merry chase, and led 40+ kindergarten graduations. Her first kindergarteners are graduating college now. Marty has taught entire families of kids and gets visits from children of every age.
Three years ago Mrs. Davis finally graduated kindergarten herself and moved to first grade. When asked how she liked the transition, she remarked “They (the students) are mini geniuses! They know how to write their names and line up. They know how to use scissors and glue sticks. They are so smart!”

Marty’s huge smile is legendary and her love for kids knows no bounds. She’s a local celebrity at the grocery store, and more than one kid has had the shocking realization at seeing her in Smith’s: My teacher doesn’t live at the school?!?
Marty teaches through song and dance, wiggles and writing, and most importantly through play. She’s helped shaped an entire generation of students, and every day she does it with the biggest smile on her face.

Marty pictured with her granddaughter, Claire.”

-Emily V Tuckett

Original nomination: October 2022

“Cheerful, loving, bubbly, and kind; Marty Davis has been sharing her bright smile with 6 year-olds for more than 20 years. Teaching Kindergarten and now 1st grade, She has taught nearly 1000 students. She’s a celebrity at the grocery store as excited former students spot her “Mrs. Davis! Mrs. Davis! Remember me?” Lately her admirers have been much older than 6 though. Now up to 28 years old and having Kindergarteners of their own, her students still remember how she made learning fun, how her smile lit the room, and how loved and safe they felt in her classroom. Marty is a lovely, sunshiney teacher who loves making a difference one student at a time.”

-Emily V Tuckett