For Sarah Prock, becoming a teacher is more than a career choice. It is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream that she once feared might never become reality.
Prock is beginning a new role as the computer lab and handwriting teacher at the Allen County Primary Center (ACPC) in Scottsville. After spending the past two years working with preschool students at ACPC, she is excited to build relationships with even more children throughout the school.
A native of Island, Kentucky, Prock graduated from McLean County High School in 2007. She began working toward a college degree after high school but had to leave school after nearly two years because of unexpected circumstances. As time passed, Prock began to wonder whether returning to college was still possible.
“Being a teacher is something I have always dreamed of,” Prock said. “For years, I made excuses about why I couldn’t finish my teaching degree. I was married, I had four kids, and I thought, ‘Oh no, I’m too old now!’”
Instead of allowing those concerns to end her dream, Prock enrolled in online courses through the University of the Cumberlands. She is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education and is scheduled to graduate in May 2027. She plans to begin student teaching following Christmas break and hopes to continue her education by earning a Master’s Degree.
“I thank the Lord daily for providing this opportunity,” Prock added. “My dream and passion are finally coming true. I get to build relationships with all the school children and see them grow and succeed.”
Prock has worked for Allen County Schools for five years, including the past two years in the preschool program at ACPC. Her experience has taught her that strong relationships are essential to helping students learn.
“When students feel respected, supported and valued, they are more willing to take risks, ask questions and engage in the learning process,” Prock said.
She has also learned that educators must remain flexible and recognize that each student has different needs and learning styles.
“Every student learns differently, so it is important to differentiate instruction and provide opportunities for all learners to be successful,” she explained. .
In her new position, Prock wants students and families to know that her classroom will be a place where children feel safe, welcomed and excited to learn.
“Students and parents can expect a safe, welcoming and engaging learning environment where every child is encouraged to grow,” she said. “I absolutely love building those relationships with my school babies.”
Prock has been married for 12 years to Scottsville native Nick Prock. They have four children: Elam, 11; Rupp, 6; and 4-year-old twins Millie and Myles.
Outside of school, the Prock family enjoys camping, spending time outdoors and gathering with family and friends. Prock says her perfect relaxing moment includes eating something good while wearing comfortable clothes.
Although she describes herself as an ordinary person, her love for others and her joyful personality are qualities she hopes to bring into the school each day.
“I’m nothing special, but I truly love people,” Prock added. “I love building relationships and being silly.”
As Prock continues working toward her degree and steps into her new role at ACPC, she hopes her journey demonstrates that it is never too late to return to a dream. Through faith, determination and a genuine love for children, she is turning the goal she carried for years into a reality.