Child-Centered Learning
“When student diversity is accounted for, all students will succeed.”—Debra Biggs, Pasadena Elementary, 2017 Teacher of the Year Honoree
“When student diversity is accounted for, all students will succeed.”—Debra Biggs, Pasadena Elementary, 2017 Teacher of the Year Honoree
“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
"What worked in the classroom today, may not work tomorrow. Therefore, I am continuously seeking new ideas."--Alane Connolly, Shady Side Elementary
"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
"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
" 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
"It is just as important to have children thrive emotionally as it is for them to achieve academically."--Angela Holmes, Oak Hill Elementary School
"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
"I believe there are outstanding teachers because they are in the line of work for the right reasons."--Kristen Brice, RHL Elementary Teacher
"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
"Teaching is part of who I am, and thank goodness there is still much to learn."--Tonia Haislip, Bates Middle School Teacher
"I would not be a teacher without them, so the classroom is just as much theirs as it is mine."--Margaret Graham, CBMS Teacher
"In 9th grade I met an Algebra teacher who changed my life goals. She would give up her planning time to sit with me and explain the 'why' of Algebra. This one teacher gave me the hope that I could be an effective Math teacher just like her."--Lori Berry, Woodside Elementary School Math Resource Teacher
"I’ve learned that to truly get to know a child I must exude behavior that is both collaborative and inclusive with not only the student, but with all key stakeholders in each child’s life."--Stacey Coppock, Folger McKinsey Teacher
"The more I learn, the better able I am to provide engaging lessons that support them in growing as learners and rise to their fullest potential."--Christina McCall, Deale ES