Teacher Appreciation Week: Missy Banker Gives Back to Students Through Music

EDWARDSVILLE - Missy Banker is grateful for those who came before her.

Banker teaches orchestra at Liberty Middle School in the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7. This Teacher Appreciation Week, she is remembering the “amazing” music teachers who inspired her, and she’s working hard to create that inspiration for her own students.

“Middle school students are the absolute best,” Banker said. “They are in a stage in life where growth happens quickly and it’s fun to watch! Their energy is infectious and they’re old enough to think for themselves but young enough to be playful.”

Banker grew up in a small town and enjoyed every music class. Her middle school band teacher was especially helpful and provided “such a positive and enriching environment” that Banker knew she wanted to follow in their footsteps.

At Liberty Middle School, Banker works with students in sixth through eighth grade. Because she spends three years with them, she gets to know them and loves watching them “grow as both musicians and humans.” She also helps with events at Edwardsville High School and makes a point to check in with her kids after they leave Liberty.

It can be difficult to do everything she does in the time she has, but Banker balances this well. Her priority is to always make sure her students are supported and encouraged to be the best they can be.

Beyond the classroom, Banker enjoys playing music for herself. She has always been deeply passionate about music. She also loves watching hockey and spending time outside with her family.

Banker always knew what she wanted to do, and she is so proud to be a part of the tradition of music teachers inspiring the next generation. Just as her music teachers did for her, she hopes she can provide a safe, inspiring environment for her own students to foster their love for music and their instruments.

“I have always wanted to be a music teacher (my elementary music teacher likes to tease me about this often) and I am so thankful I have had the opportunity to work in the Edwardsville schools and teach strings each day!” she added.

Thank you to Mrs. Banker for your work as a teacher!

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