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Distinguished Teacher Brenda Sparks

What advice would you give to people considering a career in teaching?

Always display behaviors, respect and dedication in front of your students, as a modeled expectation of what you want from them. Humor is an amazing tool that breaks down those thick walls and allows students to connect to you in a human, realistic way. Being positive promotes a fun, safe and enjoyable environment for students to learn and for you to spend your days. You will be amazed at what you learn from kids; chances are it is more than what they learn from you. ENJOY!!

What's the best thing about teaching?

The best thing about teaching is watching my students grow into respectful, happy and productive people. Often students come into my classroom feeling bad about themselves and their world. They struggle accepting positive praise and absorbing those ideas into who they actually are.