Kim Blankenship • James Lane Allen Elementary School, Library Media Specialist

"I believe that provided a fun and engaging environment, children have a willingness to learn. I try to incorporate various areas in my library that will attract all kinds of learners and encourage children to explore many interests. Children learn best when we allow them to explore and to create."

Shelly Boulden • Breckinridge Elementary School, Reading First Coach

"Student motivation is an important key to learning. As educators we need to constantly search for ways to actively involve all of our students in what we are teaching. The more opportunities we provide for our students to actively and authentically manipulate the content, the greater the likelihood they will be engaged in the lesson and be motivated to learn. The higher the level of engagement and motivation, the more likely they are to be successful. The more successful they are, the more motivated they will be to continue learning. What an exciting cycle!"

Stephanie Hatfield • Mary Todd Elementary School, Kindergarten

“Teaching is making all students feel positive, productive and passionate about all things that they are learning; make every second in the classroom count.”

Debbie Settles • Tates Creek Middle School, 6th Grade Language Arts

"There are two great ways to deal with any student... a sense of humor and a hug."

Jackie Watson • Meadowthorpe Elementary School, 3rd Grade Quest Accelerated Cluster

"I recently read, 'Every calling is great when greatly pursued.' I know when I enter my classroom each day and the children arrive I am exactly where I was meant to be. Encouraging children to strive for excellence in all they do is my daily goal. I want to appreciate the gifts and talents of all children and guide my students toward developing a joy and fascination found in learning for a lifetime."