A new normal for Downing

Amber Downing is in her first year of teaching at St. Mary’s School in Tracy. Photo / Sophia Gaul

While school hasn’t been in session for long, new teacher Amber Downing says she has a great feeling about the year.

Downing is the new first- and second-grade teacher at St. Mary’s School, and previously taught Preschool at Holy Redeemer in Marshall, where she still currently lives.

“It’s different being able to talk to the kids and really have a conversation,” she said, noting a difference from the preschoolers. “They take direction really well, because they understand so much more.”

Downing also previously taught the after school program at Holy Redeemer, so she does have experience working with older kids.