Susan Davidson • Julia R. Ewan Elementary, K-Grade 1

“My educational philosophy is to have my students develop meaningful and active academic skills as well as social skills while in an environment where they are eager to learn and be able to carry and apply these skills with them throughout their lives.”

Mike Holdren • Tates Creek High School, Arts & Humanities

“Amid all of the varying learning styles that students possess, I simply try to instill in them a commitment and discipline to excel at anything we do in the classroom. I try to help some students be better listeners, some to improve their note-taking skills, others to reach very distinguished levels in their craft skills as well as meaningful expression in the content of their art. Setting very high expectation levels early in the year and gaining the confidence of the student, that I’m fully committed to helping them reach their potential, is a contract that I am completely dedicated to fulfilling with my students.”

Jim Lamirande • Southside Technical Center, Industrial Welding

“My philosophy for teaching is to never give up on the youth of today or tomorrow. To never say I can't do the job, if you have never tried the job. Students are too quick to make a decision on a job without looking it over. It is always easier to say I can't. I assure them they can.”

Tessie Naylor • Johnson Elementary, Grade 5

“I decided long ago that the most worthwhile investment I could make with my life is to invest my time, energy and creativity in children. Philosophy: All students have strengths and weaknesses. I must plan instruction that acknowledges those strengths and uses them to strengthen weaknesses.”

Carol Perkins • Cardinal Valley Elementary, Grades 2-3

“It is my profound belief that all children can learn in an environment that is challenging and meets their educational, emotional, and creative needs. I feel children will rise to meet the expectations of their parents, teachers, and communities.”