Sherry Parker, DG Elementary
Position: 2nd grade teacher
Years Teaching: 25 years
Hobbies/Interests: Exercising, watching all sports, puzzles, time with family and friends
What do you enjoy most about teaching? The people – I get to work with the best teachers, staff, and students. Every day I try to learn something new about every student in my classroom. I want each student to feel like their time in my room is the best part of their day.
What do you find most challenging about teaching? The most challenging AND rewarding part of teaching is discovering what each individual student needs to be the most successful person they can be, and then stepping back and watching them become independent, successful, and proud.
Best tip for new teachers: Know that you do not need to be the smartest person in the room. Learn from other teachers and from all of your students. Find out what each student is passionate about and let them shine at just the right time.
Best tip for career teachers: Teachers work hard learning and perfecting ways to best teach the curriculum. Find ways to enhance the curriculum with as much fun as possible. Students will remember the fun brought to the classrooms.
Favorite piece of advice for students: Get to know everyone in your class. Look for ways to be kind. Take pride in everything you do. Try new things and never be afraid to look silly. Shine and share your talents. Always find time to laugh.
What being a Gold Star Teacher means to you: Being named a Gold Star Teacher is an honor. It is an opportunity to thank and represent everyone who has helped me over the years. This award represents the amazing school districts I have been a part of. It represents all of the brilliant, caring, helpful teachers/staff that have shared with and helped me every day. It represents every student I have taught over the years, each has made every school day meaningful, memorable, and fun. And it represents my family that supports me and makes it possible for me to do the job I love every day. I am very proud to be a Union Knight. Thank you for this honor.
Watch Sherry’s video here!