Hagemann teacher honored for making life-changing difference

Hagemann teacher honored for making life-changing difference
Posted on 10/31/2019
Julie Dooley and RileyJulie Dooley, a fourth grade teacher at Hagemann Elementary School, was recognized by Honored, an organization that celebrates teachers who make a life-changing impact on students.

Dooley was nominated in May by Riley Barton, one of her students last year, and Amber, Riley’s mom. Riley and Amber wrote a letter about the impact Dooley had on her throughout the course of the year.

“I remember reading it and thinking that it’s amazing the impact you have on kids, and you just don’t realize it,” Dooley said. “It filled my heart that I can do that for someone. It’s not about the nomination. It’s about how Riley feels about me that means the world to me.”  

“She was always positive and a sweet, loving person,” Riley said. “Even though she has her own problems, she doesn’t show that here. She always puts on a bright face and encourages us to do more than what we are doing."

As the November honoree, Dooley received a $5,000 unrestricted cash reward, as well as a $1,000 gift card to DonorsChoose.org to support other teachers across the country. 

“It means more to me that it came from her than anything else.” Dooley said. “Knowing that she feels that way about me is something I’ll treasure for the rest of my life.”

This school year marks Dooley’s tenth year in education, all of which have been at Hagemann Elementary.

Watch the video to see Dooley's emotional reaction to the award. You can also click here to read Honored's write-up on Julie Dooley.

The Mehlville School District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and other characteristics protected by law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: contact Adam Smith at 314-467-5006 or [email protected].