Content: 3-5 MID
School: McIntosh Elementary
Years Taught: 8 total (3 in Special Education)

What is the best way to describe your classroom on a typical day?
Organized chaos, with a splash of love, empathy, and self-advocacy!

Why do you love working in NNPS?
I am a proud NNPS teacher because through Newport News public schools I have been provided many of opportunities to grow and learn in my profession. I have been able to build relationships with colleagues on all different levels that have helped me find my niche and supported me to be the best I can be for the students who I am lucky enough to teach and learn alongside daily.

Content: K-2 ASD Self-Contained
School: Knollwood Meadows Elementary
Years Taught: 6

What do you love most about teaching?
My favorite part about teaching is the relationships I get to build with my students. I love watching their growth and seeing how far they come through the year. I also truly enjoy building relationships with my parents. Being a special education teacher, I have the luxury of a smaller class size which allows me to talk to my parents on a more frequent basis. I believe that building relationships with my students and families is a top priority. Without trust, the students will not be able to learn as well.  

What is the best way to describe your classroom on a typical day?
The energy in my classroom is calm. We like to have a good time with lots of structure and routine. We have a rotation of both small and large group lessons, and my students know what is expected of them at all times. I try to prevent having down time in order to prevent behaviors from arising.

Content: 3-5 Special Education
School: Stoney Run Elementary
Years Taught: 3

Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I began my teaching career in the Teacher in Residence (TIR) program. I wouldn’t have been able to become the teacher I am without the mentors and coaches that helped me. I would like to pay that forward.

What do you love most about teaching?
I love the potential to impact I have on a student’s life. Big or small, I make a difference. I love watching young lives develop knowing they are better off for what I have taught them.

Content: Autism 3-5
School: Sedgefield Elementary
Years Taught: 2

Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I am passionate about supporting fellow teachers because when I was a new teacher I needed the same support. We are a team. We need to support build each other up.

What do you love most about teaching?
What I love most about teaching is seeing the students learn, grow, and develop. It is fulfilling to see them learn and grow. I also enjoy building relationships with students and making memories that will be treasured. I cherish my work and value every connection in this field.

Why do you love working in NNPS?
NNPS has given me an opportunity to serve and give back to my community. In my late twenties, I received my GED through the adult education program. From there it opened doors for me to go to college and receive 3 degrees. Thank you NNPS.