Jackie Ross | Guthrie Upper Elementary School
You're about to meet Jackie Ross. I was recently at the school to take pictures of Jackie. While in the office getting checked in, there was a parent and her child in the office and they heard that I was headed to Jackie's class. They started talking about how much they love her. Then someone else started talking about how awesome she is as a teacher. I'm guessing this is why she is Teacher of the Year for 4th grade.
Have fun getting to know Jackie.
What's your name?
Jackie Ross
Where do you teach?
Guthrie Upper Elementary
How long have you been teaching?
13 years
What grade do you teach?
4th grade
What is your super power to be able to rock out the work you do?
I feel like I am really good at getting kids to realize that they have inside them what it takes to become great! I am great at building up their confidence and teaching them that they don't need to be afraid to try things. I tell them that I would rather see them get a wrong answer and learn from it then to not try at all. I pretty much still think like a kid and I think that helps me understand them.
What made you want to teach?
Kids! I have always loved to watch kids. When I walk in a room or anywhere, the first thing I notice are the kids. I love to see how they think and what motivates them. I am just a kid at heart!
What gets you up everyday to go give your all to teaching?
My class! They are always eager and have that look in their eyes saying "What do you have for me today?"
If you could change one thing about education, what would you change?
How education in Oklahoma is funded. I would also take away testing and just teach with the best interest of the kids in mind. Testing is overrated and the only people who care about test scores are adults who have never taught a class. I don't need a test to tell me what my students know. I know what each one of them needs.
Teachers are...:
A unique group of people who are not surprised by anything that happens because we have seen and heard it all! Teachers are also the master's of emotional disguise!
What is one tip you would share to be a successful teacher?
Be flexible! Just because you have the perfect lesson all ready to go doesn't mean anything when 28 other personalities and expectations are in the same room. Relax and don' sweat the small stuff, it always ends up ok in the end.
What would you do if you were not teaching?
Social work to help kids who are in foster care or counsel kids who have had a rough life and need hope.
The last time you cried at the end of the day teaching was because of what?
About a year ago out of frustration! Keeping this many kids in line and doing what they are supposed to be doing is like trying to hold back Niagara Falls!
Who inspires you in your work and why?
The other teachers and staff that I work with! They are amazing people and would do anything for me. We work great together and are always finding ways to help each other.
How would you describe a conversation with one of your students?
Long and very detailed especially when I am very busy.
What is it that the world does not know about teachers?
We make more decisions in a day the anyone can imagine. It is estimated around 1,500 everyday. We are the best at keeping our ego, emotions and comments inside and under control. We have more will power then anyone. That is why we are tired!
Share your biggest joy teaching as of today?
Seeing the light bulb come on when a students finally "gets it"!
One thing that makes you smile?
My family