After graduating from Vestavia Hills High School (VHHS) in 1999, Emily attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts. She then attended the University of Montevallo, where she received her master’s degree in secondary education. After learning of an English teaching position at VHHS, Emily fervently applied and was soon hired to teach grades 9 and 12. Emily will begin her ninth year at VHHS this upcoming school year in which she currently teaches 12th-grade English. Here, Emily details her gratitude for the Vestavia Hills Schools system.
How did you decide on teaching English, and what aspect of this curriculum is most exciting for you?
I wanted to teach young people, use my talents of storytelling and make words on the page fun and engaging. I am able to do all of those things and even more (incorporating history, music and art) into teaching English. The different layers add to the engagement of the curriculum and make it exciting to teach every year. It’s inspiring to see my students grow in their love for literature and gain confidence in their written expression.
What is your favorite book you’ve read, as well as your favorite book to teach and why?
My favorite book is “Matilda” by Roald Dahl. I received the book in a special way when I was young, and the memory of that gesture along with the magical story of Matilda, her best friend– Lavender–and the teacher she adored–Miss Honey–will always be unforgettable to me. The book I most enjoy teaching is “1984” by George Orwell. Every year I teach the novel, it provides a new experience and becomes more fascinating and applicable.
Why is teaching language—reading comprehension—critical to both a student’s academic and professional career?
Fostering a love for reading and emphasizing its importance can be a struggle in today’s society, where phones and TikTok have become the main forms of entertainment, but its value never changes. When students are able to read, comprehend and critically think about any text they are given, it will undoubtedly make them stronger academically and even professionally as they will be viewed as strong communicators.
Why do you love teaching in Vestavia Hills?
Being able to give back to a community that gave me such a firm educational foundation is one reason why I love teaching in Vestavia Hills. It’s a special place, and I am grateful to be a part of it.
What classroom memory do you have that really solidified your purpose as an educator?
One memory in particular was when I decided to teach the play “Pygmalion” by George Bernard Shaw accompanied by the musical “My Fair Lady” and then quickly reconsidered my choices. However, as we began reading and watching, the class—mostly all boys with various personalities and interests—showed an enthusiasm that surprised me. One particular student that was always quiet and reserved became inquisitive about the character of Mr. Doolittle. One day, he left my classroom singing his notable tune, “With a Little Bit of Luck,” with a pep in his step I had never seen before. This moment along with so many more over the years has solidified my role as an educator.
