The Lebanon Democrat is beginning the process of running question-and-answer profiles of the Wilson County educators who have been selected as the teacher of the year in their respective schools.
Those individuals, from the Wilson County School System and the Lebanon Special School District (in addition to two of the county’s private schools), are in contention for the Wilson County Teacher of the Year Award, which will be announced later this spring.
The series of profiles continues with a glance at Angel Thomas, a Speech-Language Pathologist at Mt. Juliet Elementary.
Name…Angel Thomas
School …Mt. Juliet Elementary
Age …49
What grade/subject do you teach (of course, this will vary depending on whether you teach at the elementary, middle school or high school level)?
I am a Speech-Language Pathologist. I teach speech and language skills to all grade levels.
How long have you been in education (total years)?
This is my 15th year.
How many years have you taught at your current school?
This is my 14th year at MJE.
What other schools have you taught at prior to your current school?
I taught my first year at Sam Houston Elementary. I then stayed home with my kids for 9 years. When I returned to work, I went back to work at the school my kids were zoned for… MJE.
What is something unique about you — whether it’s a hobby, skill or past accomplishment — that most people likely wouldn’t be aware of?
I have battled breast cancer this year. That has given me a huge amount of perspective on what is truly important.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time (hobbies, etc.)?
I enjoy hanging out with my husband and college-aged sons. I love reading and traveling. I love a good Netflix night. I am very involved with my church.
Is there anything unique about your teaching situation that you’d like to detail?
I get to work with all grade levels. I also get to keep students for multiple years. This helps me to form even stronger relationships with my students and their parents.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I believe every child can learn. If what I am doing is not working, then I need to figure out a different way to present it to my students. I also believe that all kids deserve my love and respect. I try to make my class a fun place to be. I want the students to know that when they come to my classroom they are going to learn, but also have fun and be loved. I want my class to be a bright spot in their day.
Could you share a couple of strategies for how you keep students engaged and motivated?
I try to have personal relationships with my students. I find that is the best way to engage and motivate students. When they know you care about them, they will typically do just about anything for you. We also set goals and talk about their progress. I also have a reward system where students earn class cash they can turn in for small prizes from the treasure box.
Have you ever encountered a challenge in teaching that required you to rethink your teaching methods and/or approach?
Oh, yes. I have had lots of times where I have thought “Well... that didn’t work!” That is when it is time to come up with a new approach/method.
What is different, unique, and/or enjoyable about the school that you are currently teaching at?
Our school motto is “MJE is the place to be!” and that is so true. It truly is a wonderful school. We have fantastic administrators and wonderful teachers. Our parents are great also!
Why did you choose teaching as a career path?
I knew I wanted to do something where I was helping others.
What is the most fulfilling part of teaching?
Without a doubt, the most fulfilling part is watching a kid learn a skill or grasp a concept you have been teaching them. There is nothing better!
What is the most challenging part of teaching?
I love my time with my students… but of course, this job comes with lots of other responsibilities that must be taken care of as well. The amount of paperwork can be challenging!
How has your view of teaching changed since you first embarked on your teaching career?
Honestly, it has not changed that much. I just want to make a difference in the lives of my students.
How have you seen the profession change over the course of your career, and how do you see it continuing to evolve going forward?
The amount of technology has changed. All of our students have Chromebooks. Most of our teachers have smartboards in their classrooms. We have laptops, iPads, and access to all sorts of resources.
If there was any one variable that you could control or enhance to help with the educational process, what would that be and why?
I would let kids spend more time being kids.
Who is somebody who has been especially impactful in your teaching career, and why did he/she make such an impact on you?
My grandmother was a huge influence on my life, and she taught for 38 years.
Could you share what has been one of your most memorable moments in teaching?
Winning this award was very memorable. I work with the best of the best, so the thought that my colleagues chose me blows me away!
What is the most meaningful thing a student could say to you?
Just a simple “thank you.”
How would you ideally like to be characterized or remembered as a teacher?
As someone who truly cared about her students.
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