Being an Educator is an Honor

I am an AACPS: Teacher, Tyler Heights Elementary | 2019 Teacher of the Year Semi-Finalist

I believe that helping students to see the value of their academic success and the impact they can have on their future is accomplished through relationships, high expectations, and high student engagement.

Being an educator is an honor; families entrust me with their children’s well-being, education, and development. I don’t underestimate the implications of this responsibility. I readily attend conferences and trainings that allow me to learn and improve my craft. One presenter that inspires me is Eric Jensen, specifically his research on how engagement and relationships impact learning. To meet the needs of all students, I determine how to engage each unique learner to get them excited about learning.

Academic instruction is an essential part of my job; however, I believe that it is equally important to help my students realize that they can be world changers; to teach the whole child. Through high expectations and relationships, I teach my students how to navigate the world around them in a way that will enable them to shape their world to benefit not only themselves, but their community too. Students learn essential skills to push past barriers, empower them to be leaders, and advocate for their dreams. These skills include giving a firm handshake, eye contact, and remaining composed under pressure.

Inspired by the Ron Clark Academy, I started a competition for our fifth graders to demonstrate these skills; The Amazing Shake. During the competition, many teachers were moved to see students demonstrating self-confidence and professional etiquette whilst interacting with community leaders; especially students that often struggle academically or behaviorally. These skills are essential for empowering students to pursue their dreams, no matter what their current circumstances are.

Teaching is simultaneously the most challenging and most rewarding job. Each student brings a story into the classroom. I believe it is my job, as an educator, to learn their stories, help students own their stories, and finally empower them to become the authors of their stories.