Erin Clapp • Picadome Elementary, K-1

“As one of the first teachers to influence the budding minds of children, I believe the most beneficial thing I can model for my students is my own love of learning its enduring value. In my opinion, the most successful teachers find a way to creatively weave content together and invite students to make connections between new ideas and personal experiences, so that learning takes on a sense of wholeness and has real-world significance. Of utmost importance to me are the relationships established among teachers, students, parents, and colleagues and the resulting spirit of community that is created both in and out of the classroom. In order for students to care about learning, they must first be in an environment where they feel respected, secure, and supported as individuals. With this, teachers can build a successful, cooperative learning community in which students experience the true benefits of being productive members of a democratic society. ”

Susan Jones • Breckinridge Elementary, Kindergarten

“I want every child to be successful and love learning. I try to plan developmentally appropriate activities that require active participation within a social context. I believe that I can help my students achieve their highest potential by explicitly explaining my expectations for both behavioral and academic performance.”

Keith Lindsey • Squires Elementary, 5th Grade

“I believe in a partnership approach. I make home visits to as many student’s homes as possible before the school year starts. I try to call homes often, both with praise as well as sharing problems. Having been a professional actor in Los Angeles, I believe that teaching should be dynamic, fun-filled, creative.”

April McGuire • Tates Creek Middle, 8th Grade Math and Science

“I believe that all children can learn!”

Shawna Mitchell • Clays Mill Elementary, 4th Grade

“Some children are visual learners, some are auditory and some are kinesthetic. Varying your teaching style, not only reaches different students at different levels, it freshens how you feel about teaching in general.”

Chad Peavler • Bryan Station Middle School, 7th Grade Language Arts

“I love teaching middle school, not because of the content, but because of the age group.  With 7th graders, you never know day-to-day what you are going to get. They are always changing, and that will keep you on your toes.”