Model Teachers:
High School English
Meet this model teacher team and learn how college, career and citizen-ready skills come alive in their classrooms!
Rebecca LaRue Brown
Content: English 11, 12
School: Denbigh High
Years Taught: 10
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.
Tina Dellapenta
Content: High School English
School: Virtual Learning Academy
Years Taught: 16
Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I am passionate about supporting fellow teachers because your first years facing the challenge of teaching alone can be intimidating. It is a relief when someone says, "How can I help you?” or "Here are some resources." It is important to share great lessons, ideas, etc. because they benefit teachers and students. I have learned so much from many of the fine educators that work in this division. It has afforded me opportunities to become a better teacher.
What do you love most about teaching?
I love to see student success measured by growth! It looks different for every student!
Kimberly Haywood
Content: English 11
School: Woodside High
Years Taught: 31
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.
Meet Our Model Teachers
Elementary School
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