Portland Elementary - 906 West Portland Street, Springfield, MO, 65807 - 417-523-4600

 

 

 

 

Mrs. Susan Griesemer

I grew up in the St. Louis area, where my family still resides.  I am the oldest of three children (I have two younger brothers).  

In 1990 I earned a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State in Communication Management. Two years later I married my wonderful and supportive husband.  We moved to Lawrence, Kansas where he finished his Master’s degree.  After living in Kansas City, MO for five years my husband and I returned to Springfield (where he grew up) to raise a family.  We have three terrific children, all of which attend school in the Springfield School District.  In my free time I can be found cheering one of my kids on at their sporting events, spending time outdoors, shopping, or just veg’ing out.

I have had a variety of business type careers but had been drawn back to the idea of teaching numerous times.  After volunteering in my children’s classrooms and chairing numerous PTA committees I knew I needed to be in the classroom providing support and instruction.  When my children were old enough to stay alone for a few hours I returned back to Missouri State to pursue my Master’s in Special Education. 

I have always had a soft heart for helping others and advocating for those that cannot advocate for themselves.  I believe everyone can learn, and I have high expectations for learning.  Some individuals need to learn differently, while we all need to know someone believes in us to make it happen. I encourage all my students to do their best, even if the answer is not right.  I am grateful to all the parents that share and entrust their special gifts to me each day.  Thank you.