Every year, each elementary and secondary school in the county selects a teacher of the year from their school. The News Courier will be publishing a few facts about each of the 2023 LCS teachers of the year during the next few weeks.
Name: Rhonda Hacker
School: Cedar Hill Elementary
Grade(s) taught: Kindergarten/1 yr., First Grade/25 yrs. and Reading Specialist for grades K-3/9 yrs.
Subject(s) taught: All subjects
Degrees & Granting Institutions, Special Certifications and/or Training:
Degrees
A.S./Mental Health TechnologyB.S./PsychologyB.S./Early Childhood Education
M.Ed./Early Childhood Education
Certifications
Certified in Neuhaus Reading ReadinessCertified in Neuhaus Language EnrichmentCertified LETRS facilitator (Elementary & Early Childhood)Certified in Orton-Gillingham TechniquesBest Practices Mentor/New teacher trainerCertified 4MAT Learning Styles Trainer
How many years have you been in education? 35
How many are with Limestone County Schools? 35
What makes you proud to be an educator? In my mind, teaching is not merely an occupation; it is a passion. It is not just a job, but a privilege. The most influential factor in my decision to become a teacher was my love of learning. Never a day goes by that I do not learn something from my students. They are my most important teachers. I feel that being an educator is one of the most challenging and potentially rewarding professions one could ever select. Where else would life look as bright to me as it does amid an energetic group to whom nothing is impossible?
What has your experience in the education field taught you? The most important thing that education has taught me over the years is to always be open to new ideas. I don’t believe that there is one “silver bullet” out there that will reach every student. Teachers must have a growth mindset and willingness to learn whatever is needed to reach ALL students.
What do you enjoy most about working for Limestone County Schools? I love that the Limestone County school system believes that every child has the right to learn and obtain a quality education in a safe and nurturing environment. They believe that we should equip children with the tools necessary for success in life and the knowledge needed to become a lifelong learner. I have always felt that their beliefs fit perfectly with my personal philosophy on how young children learn and their belief that ALL students can learn.
How do your students inspire you? I believe that each child brings to school a unique set of backgrounds, competencies, skills, sensitivities and needs. They inspire me daily by their willingness to challenge themselves and continuously strive to reach new goals. Where else could I walk into a room and see so many eager and inquisitive faces turn to greet me? They help me to see that every day is a new beginning full of possibilities.
What are your hobbies? Reading and shopping
Favorite Quote: “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” By Ignacio Estrada