Content: English 11, 12
School: Denbigh High
Years Taught: 12

Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I love being able to see students grow and develop as human beings. I love seeing students who were unable to articulate their opinions come into their own as critical thinkers, readers, and writers.

What do you love most about teaching?
Controlled chaos. I believe learning is sometimes loud and often messy, so it is not uncommon to see students talking, debating, or working on different aspects of the same assignment. We collaborate daily so that students can build their knowledge and expand horizons.

Content: English 11
School: Woodside High
Years Taught: 32

Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
Teaching is difficult.  There is a misconception that anyone can do this job, but I know for sure that it is not easy.  We all have those moments where we question our effectiveness.  It is through conversations with colleagues that we know we are not alone in some of our struggles and that there is help if we need it.

What do you love most about teaching?
I absolutely love the interactions with the students. When a student who says they hate reading with a passion becomes involved in a text and makes the statement that they really enjoyed that short story or novel, I am filled with joy. I like to have a good time in class, contribute to students' learning, and be someone they know cares about them.

Content: English
School: Warwick High
Years Taught: 11

Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I had a rough start to my teaching career. My student teaching internship was extended so I could overcome some mental health issues and demonstrate competency. My first few years, though supported by a voluntary and enthusiastic mentor, saw much trouble with classroom management. I've seen and lived what promising teaching can look like beyond heavy challenges that might otherwise mask that excellent teaching. And overall, teaching is a calling. It is a true joy to do, and, to some extent, everyone deserves the joy of this role if they choose it. Therefore, I have a passion for making sure people are able to perform this role well.

What is the best way to describe your classroom on a typical day?
This changes throughout the year but ends in a well-connected community of peers. I put strong emphasis on students knowing each other's names. I give them scripts, prompts, and time to learn each other's names. I allow much choice and agency. I always ask for permission to do basic tasks (though, always, I choose a course of action that is best for the students), and I respect space when requested. Students are encouraged to choose to engage with their learning, but my proudest talent is inspiring that positive choice. It's important to me that students can be themselves and are accepted for what that is. I pitch my methods as a commitment to democratic norms and principles, but really, I'm just trying to show care and extend inclusion. What is the role of a democratic government, after all, but to ensure that its citizens have access to joy and wellness? Some students are skeptical of this environment at first, but by the end of the year, they know and behave as such.