Professional Title: Math Coach/STEM Teacher

Class Year: 2006

Major: Elementary Education

Location: Greensboro, NC

Education Experience: 15 years

Please share your experience working with students during the pandemic?

My name is Candace Scott, I am the math coach and the K-5 STEM Teacher at Oak View Elementary School in High Point, North Carolina. I graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. My K-12 educational experiences both in public and private settings have influenced my teaching style. When virtual learning initially began in March, I assumed the role of the 5th-grade math teacher. Although challenging, implementing effective practices to make virtual learning as effective as possible was the goal. Being a product of classrooms with limited student engagement, no sense of community, and a lack of confidence in my academic ability, empowered me to be the teacher that strived to change that for every student who entered my classroom virtually or in person. Making a creative connection was the key to hooking students into learning experiences. Outside of teaching math content, I created weekly virtual field trips that took my students to places as far as Africa and Japan. Creating a space for students to continue their sense of classroom community was essential. Spirit weeks and weekly Chew and Chats were held where students would engage in virtual games with their peers and enjoyed a favorite snack. Remaining optimistic while I learned numerous educational platforms, became tech savvy instantaneously, recorded and edited instructional videos, problem solved, attended numerous professional development sessions, communicated with families, graded work, coached teachers, and a host of other duties and responsibilities proved difficult to balance, but I learned how resilient I am. Developing creative, engaging experiences for students and coaching teachers with effective instructional strategies and practices motivates me to continue doing what I have been called to do. I am on a personal mission to get students excited about learning and empower teachers. iteach icreate iinspire was birthed out of my virtual learning experience. Through my YouTube channel and Twitter and Instagram pages, I share my experiences and resources with the world. This summer I was afforded the opportunity to create instructional videos for Guilford County Schools. God will make room for your gifts, just continually walk in your purpose.

What advice would you give to people during this pandemic?

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.”

– Maya Angelou