Mrs. Shirley Battle, Kindergarten Teacher: I have been at Maury for 18 years. What I like most about teaching is interacting with the children and the awesome reward of observing students learn new things. The love of children and the power of education inspired me to become a teacher. The most memorable part of this year was when students requested to have more time to read with partners.
Ms. Mamie Vick, Kindergarten Teacher: I love children! It’s such a joy to teach them and watch them grow and learn. I love the sparkle that gets in their eyes and their excitement at mastering a skill. I was inspired to become a teacher by my Kindergarten teacher, by the love she gave her students and her creativity in teaching. Everyday that my kids master a skill is memorable for me. One “ah-ha” moment is when we learned about capacity. My class was so excited about measurements.
Mrs. Asonja Dorsey, First Grade Teacher: I have been at Maury for 20 years. I am floored year after year when I see the transformation of my students. First graders grow so much academically in one year. I adore my little sponges. I have many teachers in my personal life. My mother is truly the best teacher I’ve ever met. I’m sure she was my greatest inspiration. I affectionately call this year’s class my ”Peanuts” characters. Just like Schultz’s characters, they say the most powerful and insightful thoughts even though they are tiny people.
Ms. Sara Kelly, First Grade Teacher: I have taught at Maury for two years. What I like most about teaching is watching them learn how to treat each other and work together. I enjoy working with children and have since I was 11 years old! I like watching the “light bulb” go off when they understand/learn something new. The best part teaching this year’s class is seeing the children grow and progress in the way they treat each other and work with each other.
Ms. Amber Scott, First Grade Teacher: I am in my third year of teaching and this is my first year at Maury. I love seeing students make cross curricular connections, it shows me that true learning is taking place both in their minds and in their lives. I was initially attracted to the teaching profession, once I learned of the impact that a single teacher could have on the educational outcomes of students in inner city public schools. While I still believe that is true, I am inspired to stay in the classroom because of my students. I learn more from them each day about what makes each of us special and unique as individuals. 1st graders are very alert and each day they learn more and more about the world around them. This is a fascinating time in their times and I glad to be a part of their developmental years. My funniest memory this year is when I came to work dressed up a little more than usual and several students wanted to know why I was dressed like Ms. Albert-Garvey. Out of the mouth of babes!
