For Biology teacher Laura Montgomery, room number 181 is nearly home. But after 25 years, her retirement spent traveling the country in her RV will begin after this school year.

Living and traveling in her RV while visiting state and federal parks will become Montgomery’s daily routine following her retirement this school year. But of course, the inner teacher in her will make its appearance, as she is planning to hold educational programs during her visits to various parks.

“As excited as I am, I’m also a little scared for the big change,” Montgomery said. “I’m looking forward to the adventures and I’m hoping to do volunteer work, hold educational programs and just see where life takes me.”

Aside from the aspect of teaching however, Room 181 and her past classrooms have not only been the breeding ground for many bacteria she has cultured and seeds she has planted for countless labs, but also for memories she has come to hold close to her heart over her 25 years of teaching.

“She’s a really good teacher,” senior Bo Nixon said. “I have her this year for AP Bio and she makes the class really fun.”

This year, Montgomery was named the FHN Teacher of The Year. Many teachers noticed the countless hours she had spent before and after school to help students out, along with intervention time and chose her as a candidate.

“It’s hard to narrow down my best moment with this job, but it was an honor to be Teacher of the year,” Montgomery said. “It’s an awesome feeling to be rewarded for your work.”

Teaching has introduced Montgomery to many new people, and has been the social platform for many friendships. Take her across-the-hallway-neighbor, Mrs. Malkmus, for example.

“I’ve known Monty over 15 years,” Malkmus said. “We’re definitely very friendly with each other, and I’ve been to her a house a few times to help her out. We’ve shared many memories; she’s also kind of an inspiration and her challenging labs keep me on my feet and make me strive to be better.”

For Montgomery, teaching was not an initial intention. Montgomery graduated college in 1982 with a degree in Agriculture.

“People had always told me I should teach, and I had always said that I’m never gonna teach, so I thought maybe for once I should listen to somebody else,” Montgomery said.

She decided to go back to school to get her teaching certifications in chemistry and biology. Then, she landed a job at Parkway Central teaching chemistry, sparking her passion for teaching.

Montgomery is saying goodbye to the classroom and hello to the road ahead. She will be missed by her students, friends and fellow teachers.

“I have had many influential teachers in the past, but I have Monty to thank for truly guiding me in the right direction and serving as a great mentor for me,” senior Aiza Bustos said.