Ben Foster, 28
When considering a career, Ben Foster looked back through the years and thought about those who had influenced him- they were teachers, coaches, and administrators.
"I wanted to have an impact on lives," he remembers.
Ben was an athlete and says his life revolved around sports, especially baseball and football. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.
Following his 2005 graduation from Kennett High School, he began pursuing a degree at St. Louis Community College before transferring to Southeast Missouri State University where in 2009, he earned a bachelor of science degree in physical education.
He soon began teaching at his alma mater where he was head track coach and assistant football coach.
Wanting to acclimate to teaching, he spent his first year focusing on his career before beginning a master's of administration degree from William Woods University.
He completed that in 2013.
In August of 2014, Ben became assistant principal at Campbell High School beginning his first year in school administration.
Ben has said that he believes that by creating healthy habits such as consistent attendance, students will greatly benefit later in life and when they have jobs, regular and timely attendance will already be a pattern they are accustomed to. He also hopes to help ensure that students are ready for life after high school and has the goal of encouraging his students to become life-long learners.
This past January, he began his educational specialization in school leadership, also from William Woods.
Part of Ben's desire to become an educator was to be able to have an investment in the lives of others. Having an impact on those he interacts with inspires him each day.
He tries to be a good father, husband, and Christian who does his best, regardless of the circumstances.
"You may not always be the best, but do your best," he says.
He hopes his students, and all young people, will take advantage of the opportunity they are afforded with the teachers, administrators, and others that are nearby and available.
"They are there to help and want to see you succeed," he encourages.
Ben remembers that his parents were extremely influential in his early years, instilling a strong work ethic, values, and morals. They also greatly emphasized education and encouraged him to go to college and prepare for the work force.
He and his wife Laura, who is an elementary physical education teacher, have two year old twins, a girl and a boy, Reese and Rhett.
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