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
Passionate for Learning
"It is important for students to know that I am invested in them as a person with diverse interests and not just in the classroom."--Bethany Siwajek, Marley Middle School Teacher
My Teaching Philosophy
"I believe there are outstanding teachers because they are in the line of work for the right reasons."--Kristen Brice, RHL Elementary Teacher
Teaching Like a Doctor
"I must understand my students, identify concerns, diagnose the areas of difficulty and problem solve for solutions."--Lisa Taltavull, Crofton Middle School Special Education Teacher
Reaching Towards Individualized Growth
"Teaching is part of who I am, and thank goodness there is still much to learn."--Tonia Haislip, Bates Middle School Teacher
A Shift in Classroom Dynamic
"I would not be a teacher without them, so the classroom is just as much theirs as it is mine."--Margaret Graham, CBMS Teacher