Why did you decide to become a teacher?
I met my first deaf child in 4th grade and decided right then and there to become a teacher of the deaf. School was a safe place for me compared to my turbulent home life and a place I could excel. I’ve since taught deaf, hearing, learning disabled and even English to refugee adults. I now mainly focus on homeschooling my grandchildren and teaching ASL for the homeschool co-op.
What is a goal of yours as a teacher?
I want to be able to competently and adequately teach my subject area(s) in ways that will reach all of my students, and have them leave the classroom feeling successful and that they have learned something. I want the lessons to be meaningful and useful to students. I certainly want to make a difference in their lives, even if that means just being a listening ear sometimes.
What is one of your hidden talents?
I enjoy languages. I sign (ASL) and speak Spanish fluently. I also have taken classes in Hebrew, Hawaiian & Navajo!
What is one of your favorite books?
So many good books – tough to choose! Tomorrow is a River? Mrs. Mike? The Mark of the Lion Trilogy?
Nope, I’d bring my Bible – it’s got 66 books in every genre imaginable!
What would be something your students would find surprising about you?
My husband and I have fostered 41 Navajo children.
Any embarrassing teacher moments you are willing to share….
When I was teaching 8th grade Physical Science at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, so many students would “borrow” a pencil from me but never return it. So I instituted the policy that they had to leave a shoe to get a pencil. That way they remembered to return the pencil.
Is there a quote or saying that you live by?
“And He shall be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is his treasure.” Is. 33:6
How do you show your school spirit?
By participating in all Spirit Week dress-up themes (the wackier, the better!!), purchasing T-shirts supporting our athletic teams and clubs, taking pride in my lunch duty and doing it to the best of my ability and having positive interactions with everyone I come into contact with.
Brandon/Winthrop Teacher of the Month is sponsored by Kumon of Brandon
