Amber Mashon

When I was first offered the job at Spain Park high school, I called the science department chair. I knew after that one phone call with Amber that Spain Park was the place for me. She made me feel valued, reassured, and inspired, and she has continued to do so for the past 18 years. I do not know how Amber is the amazing teacher she is, especially since our department does not let her have any planning time. We are constantly in her room, asking her questions, seeking her advice, sharing our stories, and venting our frustrations, and she graciously welcomes us - usually with snacks and coffee. She models what it is to be an engaging teacher, a supportive department chair, and an encouraging friend. I am not sure how we can survive without her, but I am happy that she is moving on to better things. She deserves the best! - Kristen Bundren

Amber has been such an amazing colleague and an even better friend to all of us in the SPHS science department. She’s the kind of teacher who truly cares about her students, always supporting them while still challenging them to be their best.    I’ve had the privilege of working and coaching with her for the past 24 years, and in that time, she has been an incredible example of how to change with the times and constantly strive to be better in everything she does. She will be greatly missed but we all wish her the very best as she enters into this new phase of her life. -Stephen Hobbs

Amber, you are so much more than just a friend to me. You are my confidant, my sounding board, my partner in every idea and every dream. You’re the person I turn to for honesty, encouragement, and strength when I need it most. You’ve stood by me through every challenge and celebrated with me through every triumph. I can’t fully express how much I’ll miss you — it’s hard to imagine my days without you by my side.  -Pamela Hamilton

Amber will be truly missed.  She goes above and beyond as department chair and friend.  It will really be a different vibe up here on the 3rd floor without her next year.  It will be hard not to walk down to that room in between almost every class just to chat with her about the course or just life. - Jessica Whisenhunt

Our department has been so blessed to have Amber as a teacher.  In the eighteen years that we have worked together, I have never heard one single student voice regret that they took her class.  She is innovative and engaging but always holds true to the rigor and standards that have made her a phenomenal teacher.  As talented as she is as a teacher, Amber's ability to lead our department is what I admire the most.  For as long as I have been at Spain Park, she has listened, encouraged, guided, and reassured each of us. She never ceases to be patient and kind, but she is always honest. She is the heart and soul of our department and I will miss her tremendously.   -Kristie Cannon

No one could have worked harder or have been a better leader for the Science Department than Amber!! -Donna Dothard

Amber is one of the most incredible teachers I have ever known - I often tell her I wish I could be a student in her class. For the past 13 years she has not only been a mentor, but she has become one of my very best friends. Her voice of wisdom and reason (and her snack drawer) got me through many days of teaching ninth grade biology. She made our job feel less like work, and I could always count on her when I needed a good laugh, a pep talk, or just a cup of coffee! -Emily Dunn

I haven’t known Amber for very long, but in the time I’ve had the chance to work with her, it’s been clear how incredibly talented she is at connecting with her students. It’s no surprise they absolutely adore her—she brings so much energy, creativity, and care into her classroom. The projects and labs I’ve seen her do with anatomy are seriously impressive—I honestly wish I could’ve taken her class myself! I’ve also really enjoyed our little hallway chats whenever I’d stop by her printer. Amber will be deeply missed, both by her students and all of us in the science department. She’s brought so much heart and enthusiasm to our team. -Josie Manthey

Amber truly has a servant's heart. She is always looking to make things better for her students. She's never afraid to try new things and always has her students best interests in mind. -Lincoln Clark

Thanks for being such a wonderful colleague in my teaching career. Someone that I could always ask questions without being made insignificant or a bother. You have always supported new ideas in teaching and made sure the materials needed for activities were available or purchased. You have led the science department well. But most importantly you have been a friend. Always honest and straightforward. Someone I could trust to treat me and others well. You will be missed by all.... However, I'm sure you will not not miss all those Dan questions !  .... Enjoy the next chapter in your life! -Dan Graber

I am so happy Mr. Broadway loved Amber because he approved the purchase of the ice maker for the Science lab! I use it everyday! Thanks Amber!! -Theresa Mareno

Amber is a genuine, loving and precious friend. She is a  superlative teacher and tireless encourager of those around her, students and teachers alike. She embodies the spirit of community, with a deep generosity and commitment to collaboration.  Her ready laugh, beautiful smile, joyful spirit, and genuine warmth brightens everyone’s day. 

It is difficult to fully grasp the depth and breadth of the professional caliber of teachers at Spain Park High School, particularly the science department that Amber led as Department Head. Over half of the science teachers are National Board Certified and several achieved additional national awards of distinction and certification. Under Amber’s leadership, Spain Park science teachers regularly presented at the regional and national NSTA conferences. Amber fostered a culture of excellence within the department. She was a tireless Department Head, making sure we all had what we needed in the classroom, as well as everything we needed to become our very best professional and personal selves. 

She is an extraordinary teacher. An extraordinary mother, daughter, wife and most certainly an extraordinary friend. She has impacted countless students in her own classroom and beyond as she fostered and cared deeply for other teachers. 

Thank you Amber for your friendship, mentorship and love. You impacted my life forever. -Melisa Rice Guthrie