Brooke Bishop, APS Teacher of the Year

My name is Brooke Bishop, and I teach first grade at APS. I have been teaching first grade for 14 years.  I live in Boaz with my husband, Dennis and our two children; Drake is 20 and Sophie is 14.  I graduated from the University of Alabama with my Bachelor’s degree and Jacksonville State University with my Master’s degree.   

What made you go into education? 

My first degree was actually in Physiology.  I traveled a lot due to my husband being in the Air Force and worked in health and fitness.  We had the opportunity to move back to Alabama after my husband developed a heart condition.  After moving back home, I started  working in the extended day program and realized teaching was my passion.  So, I went back to school for Elementary Education.  

Did you have a teacher (or teachers) who made an impact on you as a student?

My kindergarten teacher, Jenny Copeland.  I remember the fun memories like making witches brew punch and singing “Witches Brew”.  I do this with my class every Halloween! I also had Mary Henry in high school anatomy and loved going to her class.  It was so hands on and actually made me want to get my degree in science. 

Why did you want to teach at APS?

The climate and the staff was so welcoming and passionate for teaching.  

What three words would your peers, administrators or students use to describe you?

Fun, organized, hardworking.

What would you tell your first-year self?

Keep going. It may seem impossible at times, but you will gain experience and things will start to calm down.  

How do you emphasize involving families in your students’ education?

Communication.  We are always talking with parents on our Remind app or Facebook.  Also, parents are encouraged to read with their children with a baggie of books I send home weekly.  

What advice would you give to those who are interested in teaching?

Volunteer, sub or observe first.  It is a fast paced, multitasking job.  You do 100 things other than teach skills, so make sure you can handle the pressure of being able to keep up and understand that part of the job.  

What’s your favorite part of the school day?

Read alouds! So many wonderful conversations come at the rug while I’m reading aloud to the students in my rocking chair. 

If you had to teach a class on a deserted island, what are the five indispensable things you would take with you?

Books, books, books, books, books! 

What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learned thus far in your career?

You can do hard things! 

What do you hope your students remember most about you as a teacher?

That they were loved.

Describe working at ACS in one word!

Rewarding.