Elizabeth Heist
I am an AACPS: Music Teacher, Lake Shore Elementary | 2024 Teacher of the Year
We are excited to spotlight Elizabeth Heist. Elizabeth Heist was the 2024 Teacher of the Year.
Ms. Heist was nominated by the school’s principal, Mark McCalpin. The Lake Shore Elementary School teacher brings 11 years of experience and warm heartedness to her students and peers.
We had an opportunity to talk with Elizabeth prior to winning the 2024 Teacher of the Year award.
Here are a few highlights of the conversation:
I would tell myself to dream big and to not be afraid to step out of my comfort zone. I have always struggled with self-confidence, but through my years in education so far I have learned to believe in myself, dream big, and take risks. From leading various programs, giving professional development sessions, and being a Teacher of the Year finalist, I never imagined I could get this far. I would tell myself to never limit yourself and with motivation and a support system anything is possible!
My first few years teaching I was always making things for my classroom. I’ll never forget wanting to make ribbon streamers and magnetic “fishing” poles as manipulatives for my students. My dad helped cut pieces of wood for the fishing poles as well as he made me a special container to hold them all in. My mom helped me cut and tie hundreds of pieces of ribbons to shower curtain rings to make ribbon streamers. No matter what crazy idea I come up with for my classroom, my parents and other family members are always willing to support me and help me along the way.
I love cross-stitching for a hobby and enjoy making gifts for other people.
In my time capsule I would include the picture of me and my students on the day they came to tell me that I was one of the top 5 finalists. I was so shocked and honored to be a finalist. It was such a sweet moment with my students and colleagues and is a picture that represents a moment I never want to forget. The quote would be from Rita Pierson which says, “Every child deserves a champion- an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” I have had so many champions in my life that have helped me get to this moment and I hope that I can be a champion for my students, family, and colleagues. The song would be “Yet Not I, But Through Christ in Me.” My faith is very important to me and it is only through God’s grace that I have gotten to this point in my career and have been able to be a part of this incredible yearlong journey.
For the last question, what is one reason why someone should choose to become a teacher?
Louis Nesbitt, Office of Business & Community Development
The journey of an educator is a lifetime. We are thankful to those who have chosen to embark on this path. As a community, one of our greatest capacities is availability, so when the opportunities arise, find your own way to support education.
