Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of columns on teaching by 2018-19 Bryan County Schools Teacher of the Year Emily Dixon. 

Hi, I’m Emily Dixon. I am a fifth-grade teacher at McAllister Elementary School in my sixth year of teaching.

As a Florida native, my teaching journey began when I decided to trade in the oranges for peaches, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from Mercer University in Macon.

As a passionate, lifelong learner and lover of the mountains, I then decided to pursue a master’s degree in elementary education from Appalachian State University in one of my favorite places in the whole world: Boone, North Carolina. I currently reside in Richmond Hill with my husband, Tim Dixon, and four cats: Timon, Pumba, Simba and Nala. I have had the pleasure of teaching in Bryan County for five years now.

What I love most about this town is the deep sense of community I have felt since day one. I love being a part of a small town where everyone supports each other. As a teacher, I love the phrase: “It takes a village to raise a child.” With that said, there is honestly no other village I would rather reside in.

I became a teacher because I have a passion to foster unique, positive educational experiences for my students. My philosophy of education is deeply rooted in student needs and building positive relationships.

I believe that the greatest gift I can provide my students is creating relevant and engaging learning experiences that develop a motivation in them to experience success. At the end of the day, I want my students to leave my classroom each day wanting to learn, know, and do more.

I am honored and excited to write for Bryan County News. As an educator in our community, I believe it is important to share about topics that can easily transcend into a reader’s everyday life. Whether you are a teacher, parent or student, I hope my words will reach you and impact your life in a meaningful way.

With that said, I would love to hear from readers. Whether you just want to say hi, send me feedback, or suggest a topic you would love to see addressed by me, you can email me at asktheteacher2019@ gmail.com.