The MSD Educator of the year, Ms. Gina Paul, has dedicated nearly four decades to the art of teaching, with 37 years of total experience—17 of those right here at MSD. Thirty-seven years in the classroom is a monumental achievement–That’s nearly four decades of shaping the future, one student at a time—Gina Paul has proven that a classroom is more than just four walls; it is a place where potential takes flight. Her passion isn't just about teaching a curriculum; it's about growing students.
A graduate of Texas A&M Texarkana and a specialist in Early Childhood Education, Gina’s philosophy is simple yet profound: she builds a safe haven for her students. She knows that for a child to truly grow, they must feel safe enough to take risks and confident enough to share their voice.
Gina believes that for a student to reach his/her fullest potential, the classroom must be more than just a place to study – it must create a secure environment where students feel safe to question and to grow. She encourages students to step out of their comfort zones to build credibility in their own abilities. When you enter Ms. Paul’s classroom, you will hear students sharing ideas and formulating thoughts as they collaborate, where every voice is valued, and learning becomes a shared, active experience.
Beyond the classroom, Gina is a vital part of the Monticello community. Her commitment to service is evident as she shares her musical talents by playing the piano at Monticello Baptist Church. She is widely respected by parents and colleagues alike, though her greatest fans remain the students whose lives she has transformed into well-rounded, responsible individuals.