The culture of this school is amazing. I feel supported. If I need anything at all, I know who to reach out to. If I’m having a bad day, I know who I can reach out to. It’s one big family. To work in this environment means a lot to me.
Can you talk about your journey to your current position?
This is my fifth year here. I started with the Friendship Cares Program and an opportunity became available soon after. The former assistant principal recommended that I apply for a fourth grade co-teaching opportunity. It was an amazing experience. I learned a lot from my colleagues. I enjoy having the autonomy to be creative.
Our math coach, Ms. Richardson, is phenomenal and offers great ideas. She has truly made an impact on my professional experience as a math educator.
What do you like about Friendship Chamberlain?
When I talk about it, it brings tears to my eyes. The culture of this school is amazing. I feel supported. If I need anything at all, I know who to reach out to. If I’m having a bad day, I know who I can reach out to. It’s one big family. To work in this environment means a lot to me.
My daughter also goes here. She started out in pre-K and is now in 2nd grade. Just seeing that growth itself has been phenomenal. Her teachers have been amazing. On the weekends or during spring break she asks me, “Are we going to school today?” She wakes up every morning and wants to go to school. I want all my students to feel that way.
Beyond academics, it’s also rewarding to watch children grow both socially and emotionally. For example, one of my students from years ago was very shy and wouldn’t talk. After developing a relationship with her, I watched her come out of her shell. I showed her that I cared. I spent time with her after school. Our families attended outings together. That really helped. She’s now in 7th grade, and every time I see her, I give her a hug and say, “I’m proud of you.” Little things like that matter to kids.
What do you like about Friendship Chamberlain?
When I talk about it, it brings tears to my eyes. The culture of this school is amazing. I feel supported. If I need anything at all, I know who to reach out to. If I’m having a bad day, I know who I can reach out to. It’s one big family. To work in this environment means a lot to me.
My daughter also goes here. She started out in pre-K and is now in 2nd grade. Just seeing that growth itself has been phenomenal. Her teachers have been amazing. On the weekends or during spring break she asks me, “Are we going to school today?” She wakes up every morning and wants to go to school. I want all my students to feel that way.
Beyond academics, it’s also rewarding to watch children grow both socially and emotionally. For example, one of my students from years ago was very shy and wouldn’t talk. After developing a relationship with her, I watched her come out of her shell. I showed her that I cared. I spent time with her after school. Our families attended outings together. That really helped. She’s now in 7th grade, and every time I see her, I give her a hug and say, “I’m proud of you.” Little things like that matter to kids.