Hilary Meunier has fulfilled a dream. A math and science teacher at Sandhills Farm Life Elementary, Hilary knew as a child in Vermont that she wanted to be a teacher. In 2023-24, she returned to the classroom after taking seven years off to raise a family.
This fall, Hilary will begin her sixth year in the teaching profession. Her preparation for the field, however, started before she entered college.
“I would go back to my elementary school (to help out) while I was in high school,” Hilary said.
Since graduating from Saint Michael’s College – where she majored in elementary education and psychology – Hilary has taught at three different schools. Along with earning an undergrad degree, she’s also obtained a master’s from Concordia University.
At Sandhills Farm Life, Hilary teaches fifth grade. Prior to her return, she taught third grade. Even though there are only two years between the academic levels, older students bring new challenges.
“They have more of a personality in fifth grade,” Hilary said.
Whatever grade she teaches, Hilary appears to have the right skills to keep things running smoothly.
“People have told me I do a good job with classroom management,” she explained. “I keep things straight.”
To help with keeping everything seamless, Hilary found needed support from the staff at Sandhills Farm Life.
“I was really lucky,” she said.
Several aspects of teaching provide enjoyment. Hilary is happiest when a learner starts clearing the hurdles.
“It’s great when a kid – who may have been struggling – finally gets it,” she noted.
Teachers, like those they instruct, are still learning. It’s not something Hilary sees coming to a stop.
“It happens every day,” she said. “It’s a never-ending process.”
Hilary and her family have lived in Moore County for seven years. They like taking advantage of what the area offers.
“We found a home here,” recalled Hilary. “We walk on the trails all the time.”
While the family has settled in Moore County, a regular effort is made to get back to New England.
“I come back every summer,” Hilary said. “I want my kids to experience what I experienced.”
Teaching can be demanding. If a day comes where Hilary wants a new experience for herself, she has an idea for the transition.
“I can move to being an academic coach,” she said. “I would still be working with kids, but it keeps my options open. When the classroom gets too much, I definitely want to stay in education.”
~Written by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Dave Lukow. Dave has been honored as both a lyricist and screenwriter. Among other publications he’s contributed to are the Buffalo News, JD Journal, Beckett Hockey, Seminole Player’s Life, Poker Pro, Walmart World, and All In.
