Ruth Hamm retires after lifelong teaching career
By ROWENA PLETT
Reporter / photographer
Ruth Hamm's childhood dream of becoming a teacher came true 48 years ago when she was employed to teach second grade at Junction City on a provisional certificate.
After two years, she took time off to raise a family. Meanwhile, she acquired a college degree. She started teaching again in 1970 for Centre Unified School District #397 at Pilsen Elementary School
Hamm ended her teaching career May 23 as a Title 1 instructor at Centre in Lost Springs.
Hamm grew up in the Ebenfeld community. Her parents were Abe and Doris Dalke.
"I cannot remember a time that I didn't want to be a teacher," Hamm said. "As a small child, I would play school with my dolls and any younger siblings that would sit still
"School was always important in our family as my father was a teacher. There was always a plentiful supply of books in our home and I have always enjoyed reading and learning."
After graduating from Hillsboro High School, Hamm attended Tabor College to prepare to teach. A person could receive a 60-hour provisional certificate after two years.
Because money was scarce, Hamm opted to receive the certificate and begin her teaching career instead of obtaining a degree.
At the age of 19, she accepted the Junction City job, teaching second grade at the new Lincoln Elementary School
She married Larry Hamm in 1956 and spent the next years raising a family and picking up college hours along the way. In 1970, she obtained a degree and again was ready to teach.
At Pilsen Elementary School, she taught a combination of third and fourth grades as well as fourth and fifth grade spelling. Teachers were expected to put in a "full" day. Only one 20-minute break occurred during the school day. Even at noon, teachers were required to eat with the students.
"I enjoyed teaching at Pilsen as the students were well behaved and ready to learn," Hamm said.
After six years, Hamm was asked to transfer to Centre Elementary School because the Pilsen school was slated for closure. She taught there for 27 years as first grade, second grade, and Title 1 instructor.
Hamm has three children: daughter Janice Richardson, Albuquerque, N. M.; son Russell and wife Donna, Canton; and daughter Kathy Nachtigall and husband Mark of rural McPherson. Her 11 grandchildren range in age from 25 to five years.
"My years of teaching have been very rewarding," Hamm said.
