By Emily Burleigh

Jeremy Deamon, 37, instills values in his students that will guide them into a life of productivity and success.

Nurturing the lives and minds of young people is the cornerstone of developing a connected and constructive community, he said.

“Education helps the community by filling it with productive citizens who are capable of learning and uplifting themselves and others.”

This is a service he has provided, both inside and outside of the classroom, to the students of Molo Middle School since 2017. He teaches sixth-grade math, and coaches football and track at Molo and Washington-Marion and Sam Houston high schools.

He said when he was a student he (secretly) enjoyed school and has always had a love for learning. Most of all, he loved math.

“Math was one of my favorite subjects in school and there are very few people that can actually teach math effectively.”

He is a Dallas native, and is a product of the Duncanville Independent School District.

After graduating from Duncanville High School, he moved to Lake Charles to attend McNeese State University. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science in general studies. He later obtained a master’s in educational leadership from Grand Canyon University, and is now certified to teach fourth through eighth grade.

After seven years of teaching, Deamon has determined that being a teacher is a fulfilling role that has not only enriched his life, but aligns with a cause he cares deeply about.

“Education is the first career I have had that makes me feel like I am not working. I have a passion for educating the youth of tomorrow and seeing them become successful.

He ultimately chose the profession to serve the youth by sparking in them the love for learning that he carries. Through this ignition, his students are set on the inquisitive path that leads to a fully-fleshed out education.

“I wanted to inspire the next generation.  I always wanted to help students get rid of every area of ignorance in all subjects.”

This isn’t always an easy task, but Deamon’s favorite part of teaching is “seeing the lightbulb come on or seeing students persevere and finally understand a concept that they were struggling with.”

These “lightbulb” moments happen in a space that makes students feel comfortable. He said that it has been a goal of his to create a domain that encourages productive learning.

“I have done my best to create a learning environment that is safe, caring and rewards effort.”

His students are responsive to his efforts and in return work even harder, he said

“I love my students and I believe they know I care for them and want what is best for them.”

His philosophy is “it’s not what you’re capable of, it’s what you’re willing to do.”

He advises that his peers — current and future — practice patience for themselves and students, and remember why they chose education as their profession when the job becomes difficult.

“Understand that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Education is a labor of love. Love what you do. If you don’t love what you do, you won’t do it with much conviction or passion.”