Angie Herron

Hello, I'm Angie Herron.When I think about teaching, I do not think of it as my profession, I think of it as my passion. What a privilege it is that we help shape the lives of our students. What a privilege it is that our lives get touched, and therefore enriched by every student that walks through our classroom door. I feel lucky knowing that I have the chance to change people's lives. I have the opportunity to challenge statistics, and beat the odds by making sure that every student that comes into my classroom will receive the best education I can provide.

I have always wanted to be a teacher, beginning at the age when you begin to respect and admire your mother instead of block her out when she speaks. My mom has been the biggest role model in my life and watching her success as a teacher over the years has made me realize the importance of what I do on a day-to-day basis. I decided to be a teacher for a couple of reasons: I wanted to be like my mom, I have always enjoyed school and learning, and I love working with kids. I would be lost without teaching. I really love what I do.

I really believe that teaching and learning are one in the same. Learning is a continual life long process. It is important that teachers model this concept of life long learning for their students. Learning should be interesting, challenging, and even fun. Having NSF fellows come into my classroom has really brought the level of learning up to the next level. We are scientists in my classroom and we are building upon our expertise everyday. Having a NSF fellow to team teach with creates a challenging environment, in which everyone learns and benefits, the fellows and myself included. With more hands and minds to work with we are able to explore and understand more.

I have been very impressed with this program. My students love having scientists in the classroom. It is also nice for me to be able to share my passions, both for science and teaching with a colleague who is in my classroom with me on a regular basis. This program is really a win-win situation for all involved, the students, parents, NSF fellows, and teachers. We all grow intellectually and socially from getting a better perspective of how the world works.