An educator should be knowledgeable of subject matter. He/ she should be able to present the subject matter in a way that is exciting and meaningful. More importantly, an educator should be a positive role model in which they show their students how much they care. Only then will students be able to achieve academic success.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Montevallo in May 1997. In 2000, I earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Samford University.

Teaching fourth grade this past year, Sylacauga, AL, opened my eyes to the importance of “preparing” the students for the common core standards. I tried to take any anxiety that they were feeling away by giving them multiple examples and resources. I provided them extra practice time so that they could “own” their standards and be successful.

I helped with the school garden this past school year. We planted vegetables and fruits and we taught math and science concepts using the garden. The students felt ownership each time they took part in planting or picking from the garden. One of my favorite memories was when the students cooked and tasted turnips they had grown in their very own garden.