Excelsior Springs, Mo. – For 17 years, Mary DiGirlamo has made her home in the seventh-grade social studies classroom at Excelsior Springs Middle School. Known for her lively simulations, deep connections with students, and solid dedication to her classroom, DiGirlamo is the kind of educator whose influence lingers long after her students leave her classroom. This year, she was honored in being named the school’s Teacher of the Year.
“I love it here,” DiGirlamo said. “I wouldn’t have stayed as long as I have if I didn’t.” After earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UMKC, she began her teaching career at ESMS and never looked back. Though certified to teach high school, it was middle school that stole her heart. “They’re still little, but they’re capable of such deep conversations,” she said. “It’s really the best of both worlds.”
DiGirlamo’s classroom is far from ordinary. Her students don’t stop at learning history; they step inside of it. She utilizes immersive, hands-on simulations known as “act-it-outs,” in which students roleplay historical events like the signing of the Magna Carta or navigating the spread of the bubonic plague. In one lesson, a student draws a skeleton card and learns they’ve “caught the plague,” while others traverse medieval Europe trying to survive. “These experiences stick with them,” she said. “I can always refer back to those moments throughout the year. They remember because they were engaged, and because they had fun.”
Even students years removed from her class still reach out to tell her how those activities shaped their love for learning. “That’s what it’s all about,” DiGirlamo said. “Knowing you made an impact and that you helped history come alive for them.”
Although her teaching style helps DiGirlamo stand out, it’s her deep belief in the power of relationships that make the biggest difference. “I think building those relationships [with students] is the most important part of my job,” she said. Whether it’s pulling a student aside who’s having a hard day, offering a listening ear, or simply noticing when someone needs a break, DiGirlamo sees the whole child, not just a student. “Once they know you respect them, and they respect you, they’re ready to learn.”
The Teacher of the Year honor came as a surprise to DiGirlamo, who is quick to point to her colleagues, who she shared are amazing colleagues and educators to stand beside.
Outside the classroom, DiGirlamo enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, cooking (especially Italian food), and staying active through sports. Though her co-ed softball team no longer meets, she still loves to watch sports and is on the lookout for her next opportunity to begin playing again.
As the school year winds down, DiGirlamo reflects with gratitude. “I had a really good group this year. I’m going to miss them,” she said with a smile. “I love what I do. And I love working here.”
With a heart for students and a passion for making history meaningful, Mary DiGirlamo continues to shape young minds with care, creativity, and a touch of humor. Her classroom may be one of the most established at ESMS, but the learning that happens there is anything but outdated.
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