Where do you teach? Frederick Douglass HIgh School (Fayette County)
What subject(s) and/or grade(s) do you teach? a mix of 9-12; English II, Film Studies, Professional Educator (Teaching and Learning Pathway)
How long have you been teaching? 10 years total; this is my 11th
Why did you become a teacher? I became a teacher for many reasons. My grandparents and parents were/are teachers, but I also had incredible educators inspire me to teach. One in particular was my former high school English teacher, who went above and beyond for me. I hoped to be that person for my students because without them, I am not sure I would have been able to succeed in life.
What has been the best part of teaching that you didn’t expect when entering the profession? The best part of teaching that I didn’t expect is the connections I’ve built that are so impacting that I have built life-long friendships with some students. I’ve been to weddings, baby showers, etc. for my students and they have become my family.
What is one thing you wish non-teachers knew about what you do? I wish they knew the multiple hats teachers wear each and every day, and the amount of decisions we are expected to be able to make at any given point during the day. Our lives are so unpredictable.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a teacher? I consider my greatest accomplishment each time I handed a student their diploma (At a previous school, a graduation tradition allows each student to choose who hands them their diploma at the graduation ceremony).
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t teaching? When I am not teaching, I love being with my twin boys. We like to stay active, travel, and enjoy sports events.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would travel to Scandinavia.
What are your social media handles? Bree Massie; Brezjo20