In the Spotlight: Canton Teacher Goes Above and Beyond

This Canton teacher dove right into the world of education.

Claire Lund, who has taught at the for the past four years, has always been passionate about education.

She uncovered her hunger for working with and helping children while spending over twenty years as a lifeguard, Water Safety Instructor, and Pool Director at the Ponkapoag Civic Association in Canton.

“I think I’ve always had a desire to help influence and shape the lives of young children,” Lund said. 

According to Hansen Elementary she continuously “strives to better herself, is always looking to improve her skill set. Her willingness to grow and take on multiple responsibilities and roles is wonderful.” 

After attending Canton public schools herself and receiving her bachelor's degree in Speech, Language and Hearing Science from Bridgewater State University, Lund worked as a Speech Pathologist before returning to school. She later graduated from Lesley University with a Master of Education in the field of Special Education.

She worked as a special educator for many years and “saw the need for a skill set in the area of reading and reading development,” and completed a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in 2006 at Bridgewater University in reading. She earned the Distinguished Researcher Award from the graduate school for her action research project thesis.

Aside from her excellent teaching ability and personal academic achievements, Lund credits her students for the love and appreciation she has for her job. 

"My greatest joy is watching the students, whom I have had the pleasure of working with, grow and mature," the Canton teacher said. "It is such a heartwarming experience to have them come back to visit your classroom and recall an important event that they experienced there.”

The respect she has for her students is definitely not one-sided, Principal Boucher said. "They really respond to her challenging yet caring teaching style. They work hard to please her.”

When it comes to Canton specifically, Lund shares great admiration for the place she calls home.

“Canton is a great place to live and work! I am fortunate to work at the Hansen Elementary School with fantastic colleagues who are professional in all that they do, parents who are supportive and students who work to be the best they can be.”

After many years as an educator, she continuously “goes above and beyond to make sure that every student is safe to learn in her classroom, cared for and challenged to be the best they can be each and every day,” Boucher said.

There is more to this teacher than meets the eye. Outside of the classroom, Lund also enjoys a thrilling mystery read, cooking and gardening. However, as she explains, it is the education system within Canton that holds the biggest place in her heart.

“Canton exemplifies all that is good about education," Lund said. "It permeates the classrooms and hallways everyday. There is a sense of purpose and determination to do your best, be respectful and do the right thing. This involves all who enter our school community.”