 JoAnne has taught, mentored, and advised over 10,000 students during her 28-year career in Washington County Public Schools. Her impact on students is evident in her work with dropout prevention students, with whom she wields a powerfully positive influence. She is a National Board Certified Teacher, a Maryland Technology Fellow, and a recipient of the Excellence in Education Award and the Ray Kroc Education Award.
How has the way you teach changed over the years? What lessons have you learned?
I have become less teacher-centered and more student-centered. I try to engage students in small group or cooperative group settings when possible. I've learned a great deal about private talks with my students versus public embarassment. If I ask a student to speak with me privately about academic or discipline issues, I am able to foster a mutual respect relationship more readily than if I choose to "make a student an example."
What advice would you give to a teacher who's starting their first year and feels overwhelmed?
Plan one lesson at a time. If you only have plans for one day at a time, don't stress; we only live one day at a time. Break it down. The big picture is overwhelming. Find a veteran teacher and ask for help! We love to be asked!
What do you think the key has been to your success as a teacher?
I am thankful that God blessed me with the gift of teaching. I am successful because I love what I do. I love the students that I teach and I believe my enthusiasm for my job combined with my complete enjoyment of the students I teach have resulted in success! I am a lifetime learner and strive to improve my profession in every possible way, including National Board Certification. I want to be the best person I can possibly be, the best teacher. In this way, I honor God and the gift He has given me.
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