Empowering a Community of Learners
"Students will remember science because of how I made them feel and the excitement they felt as they learned some really cool science."--Kathleen Soares, Corkran Middle School Teacher
Inspired to Achieve Greatness
"I’ve risen above thinking I achieved greatness on my own; and I’ve embraced the responsibility to ignite and stoke in my students the fire that was started inside of me." --Iris Crankfield, SRHS
My students’ home away from home
"Classroom culture and environment directly impacts student success. My philosophy of teaching is built around this statement and begins by creating a home away from home for my students."--Marlene Kramer, Southern High School
Teaching is My Purpose
"My passion for science led me to pursue every program possible to acquire more effective teaching practices and increased first-hand collaboration with scientists in the real world to bring back these wonderful opportunities to enhance student experiences."--Debbie Sparby, SPMS
Beyond the Teaching Standards
"A teacher never stops learning because our students are always changing."--Charlene Beyerlein, Jones Elementary
Paying Teaching Forward
"I hope that one day, my students will remember me as fondly as I remember the teachers who had a positive impact on my life."--Jill Weigelt, Arundel Middle
Why I Love Teaching
"Throughout the years I have met some of the most endearing children, interesting families, knowledgeable experts and compassionate professionals of my life."--Ronnie Barill, Van Bokkelen Elementary
Reflecting on my Honorable Profession
“I have come to realize that my philosophy of teaching can not be summarized into one word or phrase. It is a belief, a passion, and a responsibility.”—Nicole Hughes, Windsor Farm Elementary
Child-Centered Learning
“When student diversity is accounted for, all students will succeed.”—Debra Biggs, Pasadena Elementary, 2017 Teacher of the Year Honoree
Inspired to Be My Best
“My students and colleagues inspire me to be the best that I can be. I endeavor to do the same for them.”—Dawn Conway, Hillsmere Elementary
The Key to a Successful Year
"What worked in the classroom today, may not work tomorrow. Therefore, I am continuously seeking new ideas."--Alane Connolly, Shady Side Elementary
What a Perfect Job
"I love the promise that each new school year brings. I love the smell of a fresh box of crayons. I love seeing the smile on a child’s face when they feel good about themselves."--Josalyn Brown, Crofton Woods Teacher
Helping Students Develop a Love of Learning
"My teaching approach encourages creativity, cultivates independence, and develops an intrinsic sense of wonder [in my students] about themselves, their community and the world around us."--Sharon Mattoon, Solley Elementary Teacher
“You’re Our Biggest Fan”
" I remember my first grade teacher finding ways to communicate with me, a shy, intimated girl who spoke no English...It is important to me to teach the same way I’ve been taught."--Sunny Deitrick, ELA Teacher, OMHS
Forming Relationships Before Day One
"It is just as important to have children thrive emotionally as it is for them to achieve academically."--Angela Holmes, Oak Hill Elementary School