In Sarah Richards’ third grade classroom at Roland Elementary, learning is more than worksheets and tests. It’s laughter, encouragement, creativity and the kind of confidence- building that follows students long after they leave her room.
Richards, a mother of two and longtime Sequoyah County resident, says teaching has always felt like a natural calling.
“I decided to become a teacher because I’ve always loved working with kids and helping them grow, not just academically but personally too,” she said. “I love being someone who can encourage them, build their confidence, and make learning fun and meaningful. Seeing students have those ‘light bulb’ moments is one of my favorite parts of my job.”
That passion for children extends far beyond school hours. At home, Richards and her husband are busy raising two energetic boys, Reed and Ross, who also attend Roland Elementary. Family life, she said, is full of activity.
“I love spending time with my family and being involved in my boys’ sports,” Richards said. “Motocross, baseball, wrestling and training activities keep us busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Her commitment to kids doesn’t stop with her own. Richards is a familiar face at local events, youth sports games and community gatherings. She enjoys helping organize activities that bring people together and often channels that same creativity into her classroom.
“I enjoy creating fun and engaging things for my students and helping with community events,” she said. “Anything that brings people together is important to me.”
Faith and service also play central roles in the Richards household. The family attends Maple Free Will Baptist Church, where they remain active members.
“Our faith is a big part of our family,” Richards explained. “It helps guide how we live, how we raise our kids and how we serve others in our community.”
The couple lives in the Liberty community, where her husband serves as chief of the Liberty Fire Department. Supporting that department and the neighbors around them has become another meaningful part of their lives.
“We truly love being a part of Liberty,” she said. “Being involved and supporting this community that means so much to our family is something we really enjoy.”
Although life is full, the Richards family makes time for a few favorite hobbies. They love camping at the lake and taking trips to Disney World, where Richards’ step-daughter, Michala, works.
Even with all the activities, Richards says there is nowhere she would rather be than right here in Sequoyah County.
“I love living here because it feels like home,” she said. “The sense of community is so special. People support each other, celebrate together and step up when someone is in need. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family and build lifelong relationships.”
For Richards, teaching in the same community where she is raising her children is especially meaningful.
“I feel incredibly blessed to get to raise my family and teach in the same community that has poured so much into me,” she said. “I’m proud to call this place home.”
Whether she’s cheering from the bleachers, organizing a school activity or greeting students at her classroom door, Richards continues to invest her time and heart into the people around her — one child, lesson and community at a time.
