Where do you teach? Paris Independent Schools
What subject(s)/grade(s) do you teach? Special Education Co-Teacher in English Language Arts and History
How many years have you taught? 21 years
Why did you become a teacher? During my 4th grade year, I would read slower than the rest of my peers on timed tests which prevented me from moving forward in the basal series. Mrs. Collins took me under her wing and made the necessary accommodations for me. She tutored me. By the time I was in 6th grade I was reading above. grade level. I’ve always wanted to help the kids that were struggling and help them have great success.
What has been the best part of teaching that you didn’t expect when entering the profession? The extent to which documentation must be kept for kids. Necessary documentation but organization must be a strength in your wheelhouse.
What is one thing you wish non-teachers knew about what you do? How satisfying it is to work and make even a small difference in their life.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a teacher? Helping kids that didn’t think they even had a chance to graduate. Teaching them to have confidence and meet the goals needed to walk across the stage and get that diploma and plan for college or trade school.
Favorite thing to do when you aren’t teaching? Spending time with my family. It’s the little things in life that mean the most.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? I would have the healing touch. My daughter has type 1 diabetes and has taken over 20,000 shots in her life. If I could take that burden from her and others like her that need healing. The healing touch would be my super power