Gallion-Lemon still dedicated, still passionate to help students
Beth Gallion-Lemon is in her 22nd year of teaching in the Waynedale Local School District. She is an intervention specialist at Waynedale Middle School.
Beth Gallion-Lemon thrives when her students thrive. The middle school intervention specialist has spent her entire 22-year career at Waynedale Local Schools, where her passion comes alive when her students succeed.
Throughout her career, Gallion-Lemon has cherished moments when she’s seen her students shine. One standout memory was a field trip to equine therapy, where she witnessed students who often kept their guard up form connections with the horses.
“It was amazing to see students who built walls up let their guard down with the horses,” she said.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her job is seeing struggling students achieve their goals. She shared how meaningful it is when former students visit years later to express their gratitude.
“I didn’t realize that what I was doing with students in their younger years could make such an impact until they would come back to visit me and they were so appreciative,” she said.
When she was a child, Gallion-Lemon used to visit her grandpa in a nursing home with her mother. It was there she got to spend time with special-needs residents, which propelled her career path.
A West Holmes High School graduate, she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Ashland University and her master’s degree from the University of Akron. During her student years, she was an active member of the National Honor Society and cheered for nine years.
Building lasting connections with students is her passion, though it comes with challenges. She admits it’s difficult when she can’t seem to reach a student despite her efforts.
When she’s not teaching, Gallion-Lemon enjoys coaching varsity cheerleading at West Holmes High School. She also spends her free time with her kids and grandkids, attending concerts and reading.
Her dedication to helping students succeed — both in and out of the classroom — has left a lasting impact on the Waynedale community.
“Teacher Spotlight” is a feature on a local teacher.