Susan Freeman chose a career in teaching because she loves children. She spent 38 years teaching second graders. Now after 38 years in the classroom she has decided to retire and help children through another venue, volunteer work.

Freeman Freeman recently announced her retirement from the Delphi Community School Corporation, where she spent her entire teaching career. She first taught at Camden Elementary, then Hillcrest and lastly at Delphi Community Elementary School.

Freeman said she was motivated to become a teacher because of her love of children.

"It's very rewarding when a child is able to learn something that has been very challenging," she said. "My goal was always to challenge children to be the best they could be and give them the tools to reach this goal. I would tell my second graders that doing well in school would give them the opportunity to 'keep all of the doors open' so they would have choices in life."

Freeman said she placed a particular emphasis on developing the love of reading. She provided the children with lots of books to read.

"It has always been my belief that if children love to read, this would ensure success in school," she added.

"I have seen many changes and programs throughout my career," Freeman said. "Many of the programs I have taught are still around today, only under different names. There is more accountability in teaching today and teaching children in the most effective way can be a day-to-day challenge.

"Working with children taught me how to see life through 'the eyes of a child.' Children have such a fresh perspective on life and world events. In this way, children have not changed. Working with children is like having a new adventure each day."

Freeman explained that teaching was more of a passion than a job.

"I have enjoyed seeing so many of my second graders grow up and have had the privilege of having many of their children in second grade."

Freeman graduated from Delphi Community High School in 1966. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1970 and her master's degree from Purdue University in 1973.

She and her husband, Tom, reside in Lafayette. They have two children, Ann Ball of Billings, Montana, and Ryan Freeman of New York City.

"I have had a wonderful career with the Delphi Community School Corporation educating the children in the community where I grew up," she said. "Working with the children, their parents, as well as my colleagues has been very rewarding."

Freeman's plans for retirement include spending time with friends and family, reading, traveling, and doing volunteer work that benefits children.