This week’s Q&A participant is Maggi Pace, a science teacher and lacrosse coach at Salem High School. A graduate of Salem High School and Wake Forest University, Pace loves working with teenagers and inspiring people.

What is your proudest accomplishment to date?

I think my proudest accomplishment to date is being able to come back to Salem and coach a team that I was lucky enough to be a part of at the beginning. Salem brought varsity lacrosse to the high school during my junior year under Mike Myers. I greatly looked up to him and what he expected of us. To have the chance to come back and lead has meant a great deal, including the opportunity to see my sister, Cate, come through the program my first three years back.

How did you become a science teacher at Salem High School?

I have been in and around the high school since 2010. I worked in the APEX online learning program at SHS my first three years out of college while completing my masters. I subbed and eventually went back to finish up my teaching courses. I was lucky enough to be considered for a job in AP Environmental Science and general biology this year.

What are some things you like to do in Salem?

Salem has a lot to offer! I really enjoy meeting friends at restaurants around town to catch up. It’s also nice to have Roanoke College in our backyard and see former Salem players take the field there.

Are there any books you’ve read lately that you would recommend to others?

The last book I read, and really enjoyed, was “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry” by Fredrik Backman. I can’t say that I read novels as often as I should, but the AP and biology textbooks are keeping my attention right now!

Who are some people that inspire you?

My parents inspire me every single day. Both have always taught Cate and I to chase after what excites us. They are supportive in all that we do and push us to choose what indeed makes us happy.

What motivates you?

I’m motivated by a lightbulb coming on for a student or player. I think the best moments are when you see it click and then they can run with the skill or content. We’ve had plenty of first-time players become starters at the high school, and that’s what makes it worthwhile. It’s neat to see that translate to the classroom as well.

What does an average week look like for you?

An average week right now is the school day followed by lacrosse conditioning on Tuesday and Thursday. I’m planning for what’s next in the classroom after conditioning. The first year was undoubtedly time-consuming, as it is for all new teachers, but I’m starting to get a better grasp on it.

If you could go back and give an 18-year-old Maggi some advice, what would you say?

I think the only advice I would give myself would be to live in the moment and enjoy every second of it because time goes by fast.

-Compiled by Shawn Nowlin