Standardized tests are often stressful for a lot of students because everything they’ve learned over the year is being analyzed by a single test that could positively or negatively impact their high school careers. Stephanie Walton serves as Lamar’s test coordinator, and you might get annoyed for taking all these exams, but they’re important for your education. You’ll often find Mrs. Walton in her office, on the skybridge, or in the neighborhoods making sure everything is prepared for testing. 

She too once sat in the same seats as us taking the IB tests when she graduated from Lamar in 1987, and now, she’s ending her career as our test coordinator. Mrs. Walton has been in education for the past 33 years, spending 5 of those years teaching PK-5th  grade, and middle school math. After those 5 years, she switched to a leadership position. She explained, “When I was in the classroom, teaching my kids. Loving it, but outside of the classroom, I’m able to help more people.” Her organizational skills led her to continue working with teachers, faculty, students and parents as a leader. 

During testing season, Mrs. Walton can work up to 80 hours a week, often being responsible for everything from testing schedules, testing locations and testing tickers; everything students and teachers may need or receive during testing. During district and state tests like the PSAT, SAT, AP and all the STAAR tests, we depend on Mrs. Walton’s assistance to make sure everything flows smoothly. 

Many students have a strong bond with Mrs. Walton despite her not having her own classroom. For many, she’s a safe space to go to if you just need someone to talk to. When there is conflict, Mrs. Walton thinks it’s important to hear both sides and offer advice, but of course, there’s not always going to be a solution. Most of the time, students need to be heard and to understand that someone knows how they’re feeling and that their feelings are valid. You might think Mrs. Walton is strict or pushy, but she acts like that because she cares about you and your future. Lamar offers many different types of support for students, but those students must be willing to use those resources. “A lot of kids don’t want to do those things because they don’t want to look different, they don’t want their friends to know, they don’t want to feel like a failure.” stated Mrs. Walton.  

There have been many changes after switching from being a teacher to a leader, but the biggest and most notable change was seeing everyone’s point of view while working in or attending school. Becoming an administrator helped her open her eyes and appreciate everyone. She learned that every role, whether it’s a teacher, student, custodian, counselor, or someone else, carries its own pressures, worries and responsibilities, leading her to grow to be more patient and understanding. Over her 6 years at Lamar High School, she’s grown alongside it. Mrs. Walton hopes that every student knows they’re capable of success when given the right support.