Tracy Cropley provides a veteran presence at her job. A teacher at New Century Middle School, Tracy is in her 28th year instructing exceptional children. The former New Jersey resident has been at New Century 21 years. Before that, she taught at West Hoke Middle School in Raeford.
Tracy graduated from East Stroudsburg University, in Pennsylvania, and earned a master’s degree from West Virginia University. She moved to North Carolina in 1993.
When asked what it’s like working with exceptional kids, Tracy discussed the joy she gets from watching youngsters, in grades 6-8, progress.
“It’s pretty fun,” she said. “When the lightbulb goes on – they get it. I like these kids.”
Right now, she has nine students in her class. To help manage things, she has two assistants. Administrators at New Century are also available if needed.
“We have a supportive administration,” Tracy, who’s been married 33 years, said.
Having multiple decades of classroom experience, Tracy doesn’t face many situations requiring outside help.
“I’m not too needy,” she said.
In terms of assistants, one of Tracy’s aids started this year. Sometimes, they’ll stick around for a while.
“I have one who was with me about 18 years,” Tracy said.
A key to Tracy’s longevity may be her approach. She doesn’t let a tough time at work impact the rest of her day.
“I try not to let it stress me out,” she said. “I don’t take work home with me.”
Tracy’s husband, James Horwath, teaches English at Union Pines High School. Like his wife, he’s been in the classroom a long time.
“This is his 30th year,” Tracy said. “He’s taught at a couple schools in Moore County.”
When school’s not in session, the couple enjoys traveling the globe, by air and boat.
“My husband and I like to go on cruises,” Tracy said. “We’ve been to Japan, Ecuador, Greece, Italy, London, Iceland, Belgium and France. Some are cruises. Some are tours.”
Returning home, to a region her parents moved to decades ago, comes with benefits.
“I like living in this area,” Tracy said. “My parents lived in Pinehurst. It’s a nice little area.”
Being close to her mom, who’s now 88, is a plus.
“She’s spry and still gets around,” Tracy said. “But it’s good we’re nearby and can help take care of her.”
The amount of time Tracy’s devoted to her profession speaks volumes about her dedication. Early on, though, teaching wasn’t a career goal. When she was in college, she needed an extra class one semester. An education course was her lone option.
“I happily fell into it,” Tracy said. “It worked out good.”
If you have a teacher you would like to nominate to be showcased in this series, please email [email protected].
Feature photo: Tracy Cropley. Photograph provided.
~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.
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