Theresa Taylor

How do you continue to grow as an educator?

For me, conferences and networking are the key. Through conferences and workshops I have been able to stay on top of the changes in technology and new teaching strategies. Over the past 24 years I have attended over 70 conferences and presented at about 40. My network of teaching professionals have also been a constant source of support and encouragement. We have shared ideas and they allowed me to brainstorm with them. 

How do you create a classroom environment where students are actively engaged in their learning and feel empowered to take ownership of their education?

I truly believe that relationships change how learning is accomplished in the classroom. When you build a relationship with a student they are not only more apt to respect you but they are less stressed, more comfortable asking questions and more willing to work hard. Like Ruby Payne has said for years, "Students work harder for a teacher they like." 

Who or what inspires you as an educator? 

I look back at my teachers and Mrs. Cox, Mrs. Pensel and Mrs. Haring come to mind. Mrs. Cox was the only person that told me I was capable of going to college. Mrs. Pensel built my confidence and pushed me to accomplish more than I thought I was capable of and Mrs. Haring encouraged laughter in her classroom.  Like these women, I want my students to know what they are capable of, push them to accomplish more and remember to laugh.  I want my students to take good memories of high school with them when they graduate and always feel they mattered. 

How do you mentor new teachers? What advice would you give to someone starting out in the profession? 

I make an effort to mentor teachers' both at the high school and those at smaller school districts. For the past 10 years at the high school, I make a point to go visit the first year teachers in the room before students' first day. I bring with me a memory binder for them. These are simply 4 inch binders with page protector sheets and a label Cape Central Memories. I explain that you will have tough days so everything good you get from students and parents should go in the binder.  On tough days you can look back at the positive difference you have made on students.  I encourage them, like all the teachers in the building, to come and see me if you need help, need someone to listen or have questions. 

I have also met with business teachers at a couple of the local small schools. In small schools they are the only business teachers so I offer to be an unofficial mentor and someone they can call or email if they have questions or want to vent to someone outside the district. I also make a memory binder for them. 

Outside of the classroom, what are your passions and hobbies? 

Outside the classroom I love spending time with my family and spoiling my 12 grandchildren. I love to kayak, drive my convertible, attend a lot of CHS events, and work with several non-profit organizations.