Anne Arundel Proudly Names County Teacher Of The Year
Jennie J.L. Merrill, a Severna Park Elementary School fifth grade teacher, was named the 2014-2015 Anne Arundel County Public Schools Teacher of The Year. Merrill now represents county public teachers in the Maryland state Teacher of The Year voting.
Merrill is an experienced teacher of 15 years who graduated initially from UMBC with a B.S. in Elementary Education and later received an M.A. from UMBC in Instructional Systems and Design.
Merrill also is a national board-certified teacher in literacy, reading and language arts as well as the holder of a Maryland Advanced Professional Certification in elementary and middle school education.
What inspired you to enter teaching?
"I chose teaching because I loved the idea of changing a child's life and discovering gifts inside each child. I had a teacher who inspired me to teach. If I could make a difference in one child's life as he did in mine, then it would all be worth it. I can tell you, I know of at least two children that became teachers because of me, so I am very blessed."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"Everything in my educational background has related to my current role. When I was in college, I loved literature, so I pursued English. I love teaching math, so my masters is in math and technology. I continue to take continuing education courses which enable me to be a better teacher."
How has your education helped to further your career and contributed to your success?
"My education helps me every day. I look for classes/professional development to improve my teaching. When given the chance to become nationally certified, I jumped on the opportunity."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into teaching?
"Love children! It isn't all about the testing, it's about the child. Teaching requires many skills: classroom management, planning and organization, but the most important is how to build a relationship with a child. If you can take the time every day to learn one new thing about a child in your class and get to know them, they will do anything you ask."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years.
Primary interests include metaphysics and energy healing in which she has several certifications. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times. Sue lives in Baltimore.