Every day in Mrs. Mary Beth Nelson’s kindergarten classroom at Fairhope East Elementary is a blend of fun, energy, a little chaos, and meaningful learning. With 24 years of experience teaching grades K through 3rd, Mrs. Nelson says each year looks different, shaped by the unique needs of her students.
“Kindergarten has been my passion for the past 16 years. Being part of a child’s very first year of school is truly an amazing experience,” she shared. “Every child has their own personality, behaviors, needs, and strengths. Understanding and navigating those differences is key to helping them succeed.”
One thing that has remained constant throughout her career is her commitment to communication—both with her students and their families.
“Kindergarten is a new experience not only for children, but for parents as well, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Being there to support, guide, and simply listen is a vital part of my role,” she said. “Taking time to connect with students helps them feel safe and valued in the classroom. Likewise, reaching out to parents to celebrate successes, offer support, and provide encouragement builds strong relationships that extend far beyond the school year.”
Mrs. Nelson knew she wanted to be a teacher as early as fifth grade. She credits her own fifth-grade teacher, Ms. McCall, with helping shape her perspective on school and learning. That relationship ultimately inspired her to attend the University of Montevallo, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Her goal was simple: to impact students the way she had once been impacted.
“Creating connections that last longer than the year students spend in my classroom is priceless,” she said. “For me, being a teacher is not only about what I can teach my students, but also what we can learn together. Through these little lives, I’ve learned so much about love, patience, empathy, and personal growth. It means so much when parents share updates about their now-grown children or when a former student recognizes me in the community. Seeing them grow and find their way in the world fills me with pride.”
A Fairhope native, Mary Beth grew up as a Fairhope Pirate. She married her high school sweetheart, Kenny, and together they have three children—James, Abby, and Evie. The family enjoys traveling and especially looks forward to vacations spent at Disney and Universal. When she’s not in the classroom, Mary Beth is actively involved with Children of the World, a nonprofit that supports families through the adoption process. This work is especially meaningful to her, as she is both an adoptee and an adoptive parent.
