Lori Paulus has spent a lot of time around books. Originally from Indiana, Lori is a librarian at Cameron Elementary. It’s a position she’s held since 2002. A graduate of Indiana University – where she majored in English and education – Lori was running a used bookstore when the idea of becoming a librarian was presented.
“My sister came into the bookstore and asked why I didn’t become a librarian,” Lori says. “We were talking about the future. I was kind of looking for a career. It was a lightbulb moment.”
It didn’t take long for Lori to make a positive impression on her prospective – and current – employer.
“They offered me the job during the interview,” she says. “When I moved down here, I didn’t know a soul.”
Things have certainly gotten more comfortable for Lori since she first came to Moore County. She offered glowing reviews of her students and those she works with.
“I love being here. I love the kids and the staff,” Lori says. “It’s a very community-oriented school. We have good people.”
A benefit of working at an elementary school is being able to get to know the students.
“I get the kids for six years. I love that,” Lori says. “I get to grow along with them.”
To an outsider, Lori’s work schedule may seem daunting. She has no complaints.
“I try to get here about 6:45,” Lori advises. “That gives me enough time to be there for car duty.”
Car duty involves getting students from modes of transportation into the school.
“Our specials teachers have car duty every morning,” Lori says.
She gets home at about 4 p.m.
“It depends on what I have going on,” she says.
When asked what her favorite part of the school year was, there was no hesitation.
“I really like October – it’s such a story time,” Lori says. “We’re over the initial meeting. We’re on to the meatier stuff.”
Thinking outside the box helped create a fun feature for when the leaves fall.
“We do a campfire thing every year,” Lori says. “I do it toward Halloween.”
Utilizing a faux campfire is just one way of reaching students. Lori knows making a connection is a priority in the early stages of learning.
“You have to find out what they enjoy,” she says.
There are times getting through mandates a gentle push.
“You have to encourage them to read the whole book,” Lori says.
When a book is read for the first time, the initial reader is recognized.
“They sign the book,” Lori says.
One of the skills Lori brings to her job is an appreciation of the material.
“I have an enthusiasm for children’s literature,” she says. “I feel I still have enthusiasm.”
Being able to adjust was cited as another asset.
“You have to be flexible,” she says.
Activities she enjoys at home offer proof of her flexibility.
“I love the outside. I have gardens and chickens,” Lori says.
She also likes cooking and – not surprisingly – reading.
If you have a teacher you would like to nominate to be showcased in this series, please email [email protected].
Feature photo: Lori Paulus. Contributed photo.
~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.
Want Moore news that matters? Please click here to sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel e-newsletter.
