Mr. Scott Harding, Preschool Teacher: I began working as a special needs teaching assistant while working towards my bachelors degree. Working with and educating young children has been incredibly rewarding. Every day they encourage me to step out of my comfort zone. While my students are very young, they are remarkably knowledgeable and thoughtful. They share great ideas and hilarious personal stories. In 2006, I was invited to help pilot Teach for America’s early childhood initiative. Although hesitant, I thought of my sister, who was 3 at the time. I though of how much I enjoyed playing pretend, reading stories, and making art together. I decided that this work would be a perfect fit. Earning my masters degree in early childhood education from GMU, I realized just how interconnected social justice, democracy and preschool truly are. From that point forward, I was committed to serving young children and their families.
Ms. Janine Levin, Pre-School Teacher
Mrs. Debra Timmons, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Teacher: I enjoy observing my students, hearing their interests and building upon their prior knowledge. It is amazing watching and facilitating their learning as they work hard to accomplish their tasks. I grew up with 6 brothers and 3 sisters. My father purchased a chalkboard and we had plenty of books to read. I used to pretend to be their teacher, modeling what I saw my precious teachers do. The most memorable part of the school year has been the studies that we implemented. They were very challenging but the students were very much inspired and held an interest in each and every study we’ve done thus far. It’s amazing observing them as they engage and work together. I’ve learned a lot from them.
Ms. Nadine Mitchell, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher: I have been teaching for over 20 years. My love for children brought me to teaching. I believe all good teachers become interested in teaching because they love children. I enjoy helping to mold students into what they have the potential to become. Teaching is a helping profession, it is more of a calling for me than a career choice. Teachers have the power to change lives and to help children become well-rounded individuals. I’ve experienced that myself firsthand through the teachers that have helped me over the years. My 9th grade teacher inspired me to become a teacher. She worked with me until I finally learned how to master algebra. All of my memorable moments have been throughout this school year. The knowledge they have gained, and the feedback that I receive from them when they have learned and mastered a new skill.
Mrs. Kim Wright-Spurlock, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher: I have taught and been at Maury for close to 20 years. What I like most like about teaching is watching children when they “get it”. That aha moment is priceless. Knowing that you have touched a person’s life by helping them become educated in different areas is very inspirational.
