Sides honored as New Madrid’s Woman of Year

A large group of family and friends turned out for the 2022 Woman of the Year presentation to New Madrid native Peggy Sides. Seated from left are: Betty Belle Sides, Yusef Jones, Dana Lunsford; middle row: Tammy Bennett, Lizzie Bennett, Melissa Sides, Mary Catherine Bracey, Peggy Sides, Gretta Sides, Jimmy Sides, Cathy Sides, Stacy Barnes; and back row: Jim Bracey, Jacob Bennett, Brian Bennett, TJ Sides and Tommy Sides.

Jill Bock/Standard Democrat

NEW MADRID, Mo. - For Peggy Sides it is a favorite quote: “Those privileged to touch the lives of children and youth should constantly be aware that their impact on a single child may affect a multitude of others a thousand years from now.”

After nearly 50 years in New Madrid County’s classrooms and her continuing efforts to tutor outside of the classroom, Sides’ impact on the children and youth may extend well beyond a thousand years.

On April 24, the New Madrid Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi honored Sides as their 2022 Woman of the Year.

Peggy Sides, left, accepts an engraved vase from Sarah Ezell, a member of Beta Sigma Phi. Sides was named the SororityÕs ÒWoman of the YearÓ at a special presentation on April 24.

Jill Bock/Standard Democrat

“We always try to chose someone in our community who has shown themselves to go above and beyond for not only their family but the community as a whole,” said Sarah Ezell, a member of Beta Sigma Phi. “Peggy Sides is definitely deserving.”

A graduate of Immaculate Conception Grade School and New Madrid High School, Sides graduated from Siena College in 1971. She taught mathematics at Risco, New Madrid County Central High School and at ICS during her 49 year teaching career. In addition to teaching, Sides also coached volleyball and cheerleading along with serving as a class sponsor and coach for academic teams.

When not teaching during the summers, Sides taught computer classes at Noranda Aluminum Co. and worked at Security Abstract.

“Even though Peggy is not actively teaching in the classroom at this time, she still tutors anyone who may need assistance,” Ezell added.

A lifetime member of the Missouri State Teachers Association, Sides is a member of the Missouri Retired Teachers Association and a former member of the Missouri Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Also she is a member of Immaculate Conception Church.

As part of the recognition, Ezell presented Sides with an engraved vase, before the audience of family and friends.

Sides offered her thanks to the sorority for the honor. Noting the long list of other women to receive the award, including her mother, Betty Belle Sides, she added, “I hope I can live up to it.”