Holly Brazell
Saluda Elementary School
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1.) Tell us about your role as an educator. What does your typical day look like?
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The great thing about my current position is no day looks the same. I always start my mornings at school by greeting students and faculty in the hallway with a pleasant good morning, a smile, hug, or high five. It is important that each of the students and all faculty know that I am happy that they are there and being there matters. From that point my day can go many different directions. My favorite days are days that I get to spend in the classrooms observing students and watching them learn and grow.
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2.) What’s your education philosophy summed up in one sentence?
Building and sustaining meaningful relationships with kids is the key foundation of
educational success.
3.) Why did you become an educator?
I am one of the very few people who always knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. From the time I could walk and talk I always played teacher. I wanted to be an educator to impact the future. I love building relationships with students and seeing the students as they grow.
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4.) As an SCASCD Emerging Leader, how do you hope to have a greater effect on education in your community and beyond?
As an SCASCD Emerging Leader my hope is to shed a positive light on the education profession. I want to learn from my peers and be able to come back to my school to share and implement the great things that I have learned.
5.) What types of professional development (books, DVDs, webinars, courses) have made a difference in your career?
I love reading the monthly Education Leadership magazines from ASCD. Any PD that is meaningful and relevant to my situation is beneficial.
6.) Was there a pivotal moment when you realized your career choice in education was the correct one? Describe that time.
There are many pivotal moments in my education career that stand out. One that truly stands out in my mind was the end of my second year teaching middle school math. The students without me knowing put together a book of classroom memories, pictures, quotes, and letters that captured our year together. They gave it to me on our last day together. I cried and they cried. This moment is where I realized that the relationships that are built are truly the foundation of students education.
7.) If you could make one major change in education, what would it be?
One change that I would make in education is to level the playing field so that zip codes will not dictate the opportunities students have.
8.) What is your most rewarding experience as an educator?
The most rewarding experience as an educator is getting to see my kids who have graduated and are productive members of society. I love seeing the people that they become and keeping in contact with them.