Fifth grade Math and Science teacher Renee’ Buynar is Pelahatchie Elementary’s (PES) Teacher of the Year. A 15-year teaching veteran, Buynar, who has a degree in Business Administration from Belhaven University, served as operations manager at J.C. Bradford prior to becoming a teacher at Pelahatchie.
In addition to ensuring that all students are learning at their full potential, Buynar has been the Spelling Bee coordinator for the past nine years, and has coordinated the PES Science Fair with another science teacher. She took the winners to the state fair at Jackson State where they placed three out of four years.
PES Principal Lisa Attkisson said: “Ms. Buynar gives students the opportunity to discover science concepts. Students become ‘mini scientists’ in her classroom and conduct experiments, discuss and analyze the results, and draw conclusions.”
Buynar said, “I love the kids and the relationships we build. I have watched kids that I’ve taught grow up. Some are in college and some have families. It’s not only about grades. It’s about who they grow up to be.”
“I have never been happier,” she said. “It is not like work. It’s a joy. I’m not a missionary, but this is my mission. I strive to use effective teaching methods while focusing on the individual needs of each student.”
Originally from South Jackson, Buynar moved to Pelahatchie and loves the smalltown life. Her parents, Will and Frances Reynolds, also live in town. Her son, Jay, lives in Houston, Texas, and is also a teacher.