Emileigh Ware could have fallen behind academically as her family moved around quite a bit when she was younger, but she had some wonderful teachers that poured into her and, ultimately, it was those experiences that impressed upon her that she wanted to give back and be a difference maker for kids in the classroom.
Tell us a little about you and how you decided to become a teacher?
Throughout my years in school my father was a music and youth pastor and this can come with moving around frequently. This was true in my case. My teachers were so amazing and would continuously pour into me and encourage me, especially those years when I was the “new student”. My kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Maughan at Monroeville Elementary School, and Mrs. Kelley at Opp Elementary School truly saw my potential. Moving around as much as I did could have caused me to fall far behind, but these two teachers worked vigorously to ensure I reached my potential. I knew after that point that I wanted to make a difference in other students the way they made a difference in me.
What is your favorite part of being a teacher?
The best part of teaching is watching students grow academically throughout the year and cultivating relationships with the students in your class. I have been at Snow Rogers for three years and as my students have gotten older, they still come visit me from time to time to tell me about their accomplishments and what exciting things are going on in their lives. This always brings me joy to see my old students growing, learning and excited about being in school.
Are there special moments where you say to yourself “this is why I teach?”
By the end of each year, you become attached to your students like they are your own children. When the students move forward from your classroom and then want to come visit you and tell you about what has happened in their life since being in your classroom is incredibly rewarding. When this happens, I know I have made a difference and I am fulfilling my purpose.
What’s the one thing you would like people to know about teachers?
Teachers are human just like everyone else. We have families, friends, children, spouses, and lives outside of school. Sometimes it can be hard to leave everything at school and move on with our lives at home. We want all of our students to learn and grow academically, but we also want them to feel like our class is a safe space where they can express themselves and learn as much as possible while we have them. We love these students like they are our own and want the absolute best for them. Teachers give of themselves physically and emotionally every day to make sure our students reach their goals.
If you had one wish for something special for your classroom, what would it be?
I would wish that my entire classroom would be filled with flexible seating. I believe every student learns best when they are 100% comfortable. I would love to provide that type of environment for all of my students.
