May 23, 2025 -- Each morning, Southwood Elementary comes alive with the sound of students and the steady presence of Roxanne Adams, sixth-grade teacher. Adams greets every child by name at the front doors with a bright smile and a can-do attitude. For more than 30 years, she has been the heartbeat in schools around the South Side.

"[I want to be] that person that my students need, that they're missing in their life," Adams said. "I feel like I'm more than just academics to them. For some students, I'm that voice; I'm that safe person for them. The school was a safe place for me, and that's what I am to my students."

Adams, a proud product of Columbus City Schools (CCS), was the first in her family to complete a K–12 education and the first to attend college. Her journey from student to teacher began when she taught her mother to read and write, reflecting her deep belief in the power of education. 

Once she started at Reeb Elementary, Adams quickly planted roots in the South Side and never left. After Reeb had closed, she moved to Southwood, where she continued giving back to the same system that helped shape her future.

"I tell the kids all the time, your zip code does not define you," Adams said. "The South Side has a deep sense of community, and I see myself in many of these students. That's why I know they need me here."

Inside the classroom, Adams is a calming force. Moving from desk to desk, her teaching coaches students through math problems, encourages critical thinking, and reminds them that their dreams are valid and worth pursuing. Beyond academics, she helps students navigate the daily complexities of elementary life, from missed buses to buying students new shoes; she ensures no one falls through the cracks, including one of her very first students, now Realtor, Kimberly Woldford. 

"I was very poor growing up; I had to make something out of nothing," said Wolford. "Looking back, she made me focus on school and make something of myself versus being just another statistic. Having her as a teacher made me want to go to school." 

Her impact stretches far beyond the classroom. Adams connects families to resources, eases transitions for newcomers, and offers quiet support to those who need it most. The relationships she's built are long-lasting, including hers with Wolford who recently helped Adams purchase her new home.

"It was a fun experience to show her houses and reminisce on when she was my teacher," Wolford said. "She has always had a big heart and loved to help other people," 

Her work now spans generations. Children of her earliest students now fill her classroom, continuing a legacy rooted in compassion, consistency, and community. Despite the decades that have passed, Adams still gets emotional when reflecting on her journey. Her pride in being able to impact students is visible in every conversation, every lesson, and every smile.

Here is what Adams’ sixth grade students at Southwood say about their teacher, Miss Adams.

"She has really helped me by showing me how to become a leader," Aniya Leonard said. 

"I feel seen and heard because of Ms. Adams," Isabelle Fields said. 

"If we needed her, she would always be there for us," Bryce Marcum said. "I am really proud to have her as my teacher."

"I think she is the best teacher anyone could have," Jayden Huffman said.

Whether working with current or former students, one thing is clear: Adams is dedicated to public education and is sure she can give back. Her commitment to the South Side and belief in every student's potential have made her an irreplaceable part of Southwood Elementary. Thanks to leadership and compassion, generations of students leave her classroom ready to “Dream Big and Achieve More.”