In addition to teaching a reading comprehension program, Teen Biz, to Lee Middle School seventh graders, Angela Reed, 33, a native of Columbus and graduate of the University of Mississippi, teaches in the Crossroads after-school program at Mississippi University for Women, and is earning her master’s degree at Mississippi State University.

Praising the Columbus Municipal School District’s programs, teachers and staff, she spoke of her experiences as a teacher and impacting the lives of children.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I enjoy working with students and chose middle school, because our students are at a crucial time in their lives when they have important choices to make. If they are successful in middle school, it can carry over to a productive and successful high school experience. I value my position as a teacher and want to help make a difference, whether it is helping them be prepared for the coursework, especially as a reading comprehension teacher, or making a difference by showing them that I believe in them and know they have limitless potential.

Is being a teacher what you expected? If not, how is the profession different than you thought it would be?

I knew that teaching was going to be a tough job when I took the path to change my career (from a career in sales) six years ago. It has been the best decision I have made for myself and I feel truly blessed to have been a part of my students’ lives. It has met all my expectations to the fullest and I look forward to the road ahead in my career.

What do you find most challenging about teaching?

The most challenging thing about teaching can also be one of the best parts of our job. It is our responsibility to make sure that you are doing activities in the classroom to engage all students in the learning environment. All students have different needs and it is important, as a teacher, to make sure that all students are actively involved in your lesson. But that is where it can also get fun for teachers and the students. It is such a great feeling when you look in your classroom and all the students are participating in the assignment and also showing they are understanding the skills. I truly believe that all students can learn and be taught and I stand behind our school and district motto: Every child, every day, every chance.

What do you least enjoy about being a teacher?

There is really not anything I do not like about being a teacher. But if I did have to pick one thing, we, as teachers, want all of our students to succeed. And I know I can speak for all my co-workers that we strive to reach all students and when a student does not take the opportunity to learn, it can be discouraging. But that is when we have to make sure we are there for the student and try different methods and approaches, so they can have the best chance to be successful. I believe that the students and the parents do appreciate us for that.

How do you stay motivated in your job?

There are so many factors that help you stay motivated as a teacher and my list in this area is very long. I am very lucky to be surrounded by a top-notch group of teachers and principals at Lee Middle School. I know I can always count on any of them. My students also keep me very motivated and it is the best part of the job. I have been so blessed by my students and the parents. At Lee Middle School, we stay with our students in the seventh and eighth grades (and) it is so fun to watch our students grow up, during these years.

Do you really believe a teacher can reach a child or make a difference in the life of a child? Have you seen examples of this in your own life or teaching career?

I absolutely believe that we can make a difference in a child’s life. I think it is so important for school to be a safe and rewarding experience for a student. As a teacher, there are so many ways we can do this by motivating the student and by making them know that we care about their success. I have tried and also enjoyed being a part of my students’ experience at Lee Middle School. We have so many ways for them to grow academically and through activities and, when the students see you are there to encourage and support them, it can make all the difference. And when they come up to you and show excitement about you being at one of their events, or make a comment about thanking you for the help, you really know that you have made a difference.