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Distinguished Teacher Tiffany Jeffers

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

Don't be upset when your carefully made plans fall apart. Just stop, think and try something new. When bringing the curriculum to a child with unique learning styles, you cannot expect to use a one size fits all approach. Your approach needs to fit the child, not forcing the child to fit the curriculum. Also, it is okay to say, "I don't know, but I'll find out." to your students. They will respect you more when they see you openly accept that you are human just like they are. Have a sense of humor and try to find the positive. If you are having trouble with behaviors, look to yourself and make a change with what you are doing while holding them accountable for what they are doing. You can't control others, only your reaction to others. Change your reaction, you will change the behavior.

What's the best thing about teaching?

I get to laugh every single day. My students give me energy, a new perceptive, keep me on my toes and I am constantly learning how to be a better from them.