The world celebrates the International Women’s Month from March 8-April 8 and as a way of recognition, the High Desert Daily Press featured Trish Watkins as one of Victorville’s Most Inspiring Women.

Reading the story Local Teacher Imparts Contagious Encouragement convinced me that she is indeed an inspiring woman that I had to write a letter to congratulate the article’s writer on meeting a remarkable woman and to mention that I will share her story in our community.

“Trish Watkins is indeed an interesting woman,” said Rene de la Cruz.

What drew my interest on Mrs. Watkins is her way of caring for children students with ADHD. Her class assistant Sylvia Parks explains: “She’s got this special touch where every person she comes in contact with improves. My son has ADHD and she didn’t put him in the back of the room, she managed to find a way to reach him and to get him ready for first grade. She didn’t simply work on Justin, she worked Justin harder.”

Parks, whose son Justin has ADHD, continues to help in the classroom. She expressed how she amazed she is at Watkins’ ability to concentrate individually on each student and their unique needs.

Her secret tool? Encouragement.

“She is one of the most encouraging people that I know, and she’s very much a go-getter,” the article quotes fellow teacher and friend, Blanca Woodul. Having known Watkins for nearly 10 years, Woodul said her personality exudes a positive attitude that is contagious to both students and adults.

“Watching these children succeed makes me so happy,” Watkins, 42, said. “I love to see my students learn and excel in what they do, it’s such a motivating feeling.”

Read more on Trisha Watkins on this link. Local Teacher Imparts Contagious Encouragement.

Mr. Rene dela Cruz may be reached through rene@applevalley-review.com