I’m a man of many hats and numerous stories to share. I was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, but spent many years in Missouri when my parents separated. Growing up, I was incredibly lucky to be adopted by an amazing man when I was six years old. From him, I learned a great work ethic and how to view problems from both sides. My father shaped my personality and where I learned the value of a good sense of humor. While I can say we were poor growing up, I needed nothing that wasn’t provided. I had a rich childhood with many valuable experiences and lessons I refer to every day.
My first experience of being an educator was when I received my black belt in Tae Kwon Do and became an instructor. Working here is where I developed my passion for education and a desire to help my students succeed and grow. My mentor was an immigrant from South Korea and instilled a desire to serve my country. He told me stories of how every able male in Korea is required to serve in the country’s military for a minimum of three years. This made me question why can’t I serve my country, and was a leading reason I joined the United States Navy. I served nine years in the Navy, getting to travel around the world and broaden my horizon greatly.
While in the military I finished my Bachelor’s in History at the University of Texas at Arlington. After I graduated I wanted to teach history but was very lucky to find a fifth-grade position at Desoto ISD teaching Science. This began my love for Science and has been the subject I love to teach most. I just finished my ninth year of being a teacher. I’ve taught in all grades from fourth to seventh, usually in science, but have also taught history and math. Once my first year was up I found a position in Birdville ISD where I taught for seven more years in elementary. This was my first year at Haltom Middle School where I taught both Science and Math. I finished a Master’s in Education with a focus on technology and leadership where I obtained my principal certification.
After much thought and deliberation, I decided that administration is not for me so I decided to use my strengths in relationship building to pursue a career in counseling. I’m currently working on a Master’s of Education in School Counseling, and work on a middle school campus. While I love the impact I make in my students’ lives in the classroom, I know I can expand and help them in more areas when I become their counselor. I’ve always wanted to be the educator my students remember and affected their education in years to come, but will now do that for campus and not just for my students. I also love to incorporate technology in my classroom and try various methods to reach my students. I’m happily married to an amazing woman who showed me what happiness is all about, and who has made me a family. I have four amazing daughters who are each different and make me proud every day.
Richard Pence 