After more than 30 years in education, Teresa Lawrence, an English 1 Honors and Senior English teacher at Glenbard East High School, is preparing to retire, leaving behind a legacy shaped by leadership, advocacy, and a deep commitment to students.
Throughout her career, Dr. Lawrence has served not only as a teacher, but also as an administrator and U.S. Armed Forces veteran.
She earned her doctoral degree from Illinois State University in 2019 and continues to serve as an advisor for student organizations such as the Black Student Union and Sister to Sister, where she supports student voice and leadership.
When reflecting on what she has valued most during her time at Glenbard East, Lawrence emphasized the school’s diversity.
“I appreciate the diversity and the beautiful mosaic of multiple cultures represented, but not celebrated openly as much as they should, or could.” she said.
Her connection to the school runs deep, beginning even before her time in the classroom.
“When I served as a Dean, East felt like family.” she said. “There was an atmosphere of collegiality and collaboration amongst the staff and administration. East was always the first of all of the Glenbards to try something new and innovative.”
Over the years, Lawrence has seen shifts in both the school environment and student culture. One of the most significant changes, she noted, is the impact of social media on student relationships.
“The culture has changed,” she said. “It seems since the increased advent of social media, kids seem less connected to one another. That saddens me. Students have so much in common and miss opportunities to make more friends and get further engaged in activities and clubs that will aid in their growth.”
Despite the challenges, Lawrence says her motivation has remained consistent. “Students… and getting closer to my retirement.” she said with honesty.
Her dedication to education is grounded in a strong sense of purpose, something she has also expressed in her broader educational philosophy.
“I have been afforded the awesome responsibility and position to change the trajectory of someone else’s life,” she said. “That is a heavy load to carry, and I will never take it lightly.”
Looking ahead, Lawrence plans to focus on rest, relationships, and personal fulfillment after retirement. “I intend to travel and catch up with friends and family… catch up with a ton of reading… and just live my best life,” she said.
As Glenbard East prepares to say goodbye to a longtime educator, her impact remains clear, measured not only in years of service, but in the lives she has influenced along the way.
