Dream, Don't Forget to Dream

Remona Estep, a resident of Martin county KY, never dreamed of becoming a teacher; nor did she take the traditional path to her belatedly chosen career. She believes her choice was divinely inspired. She commented, “Teaching is a gift…It is not just about relaying information, it’s about helping the students dream.”

Raised in Martin County, Kentucky Remona spent some of her childhood in Fairborn, Ohio before returning back to her hometown at the age of 15. It wasn't easy moving back and forth. When asked about her high school years she says, “I don't look back on them with much happiness or sadness. They weren't especially good times in my life.” When her mother passed away when she was only nine, her sister stepped up at age 29 to become her mother figure. Though she wasn't her biological mother, their bond and shared sense of humor shaped Ms.Estep into the wonderful woman she is today.

“I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my life,” she says. “ I married young, had children, and thankfully was able to stay home with them most of the time. After my marriage dissolved I had to find a way to support my children. So, I went to college at age 36, with two children. It was hard but I had to do it, I was determined.”

Ms. Estep drove 200 miles a day to attend college, working hard to earn her degree in Spanish education. She shared a small anecdote about her student life, “My first semester back and I opened up my computer to see what my grades were… I had gotten all A’s. I don't know. I just about passed out. I felt like I’ve got this.” Her hard work led to her career as a high school Spanish teacher in her hometown. She is now only one degree away from a PhD.

Now with 20 years of teaching experience, she reflects on her life and has a sense of pride. Not because of her degrees, but because of her children- both of them are responsible, thoughtful adults and her two bundles of joy; her grandchildren, whom she cherishes with every waking moment. When asked what her proudest mother moment is she says, “it's not just a moment, it's knowing my children are good people. That they can stand on their own feet and make good decisions.”

What's next for Ms. Estep? Her goals are simple. She says, “I want to keep fighting for the environment, stay active in the teacher’s union, and travel as much as I can. But most of all, I want to be there for my grandkids. And getting to help the next generation, that’s the best part.”

When asked for advice, she smiles and offers one piece of wisdom, “Dream. Don’t forget to dream.” Ms.Estep’s life is testament that you can go against the grid. From overcoming childhood challenges to pursuing her passions later in life, her story is one of resilience, the power of family, and the importance to chase your dream- no matter how or when you start.