Bradenton teacher helps students find a love for reading

BRADENTON, Fla. — Ann Hunsader is the fourth-grade reading teacher at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School. 

And for her, the best part of the job is her students. 

“They’re just so curious and they just want to learn,” Hunsader said. “And especially I would say because I teach reading, we can have some really great discussions. They’re just starting to come into their own and I love that about them.”

She’s been a teacher for 30 years. She’s spent half of that time teaching in Bradenton where she grew up. Hunsader said she builds relationships with every student and that helps them learn.

“Our promise is that every child should be known and every child should be valued,” said Hunsader. She went on to say, “I know which kids like chess. I know the strengths of the kids. I know where the kids need help. And they’re not just a number to us.”

Hunsader’s husband also works at the school as the Athletic Facilities Director.

“I keep telling her, you touch these kids’ lives more than you think,” said Dan Krone.

A parent reached out to nominate Hunsader to be featured as an A+ Teacher for her commitment to her students and the school.

“That’s the type of teacher that I strive to be and to know that she saw that in me,” Hunsader said. “(It) just really touches me.”