We’re introducing you to our TCS teachers! Click here to go to the TCS blog to see the other teachers we’ve profiled.
Today, we’re introducing you to Jackie Peterson, second-grade teacher!
Jackie has been teaching for almost twelve years now. This is her third year at TCS, and her first year in second grade. She started at TCS as the lead 3’s/4’s teacher in Discovery and then worked as a sub for a year before joining the second-grade team at the start of this school year.
Where else have you taught and what subjects have you taught?
I have tutored and taught at numerous schools over the years. I started my career as a preschool teacher, and I have also taught pre-K and kindergarten.
What skills do you hope your students will learn by the time they leave your classroom? How are you preparing them to learn these skills?
I hope that my students learn to be independent thinkers and conscientious citizens. Second grade at TCS is a magical place that allows students to question, explore, and experiment. Students are given ample opportunities to experience new things, test new ideas, and share their successes and failures with classmates and friends.
What about teaching makes you excited to come to school every day?
My students make me excited to come to school every day. I love hearing their stories, ideas, and jokes. I feel as though we are a family, where everyone is appreciated, loved, and able to be their authentic self. This sense of community is absolutely amazing!
Tell us about one of the most rewarding moments in your teaching career.
The most rewarding moment in my teaching career happened just the other day. While discussing women that inspire us during our morning meeting for Women’s History month, a student announced that I inspired him to try his best in math – even when something is difficult – and to never give up.
If you could meet any fictional or historical figure, who would it be?
If I could meet any fictional character, I think I would choose Nancy Drew. She is smart, resourceful, brave, and independent. Plus, I love a good mystery!
What is something none of your students know about you?
I am pretty much an open book with my students. I feel it’s important for students to know that even though we are their teachers, we are still just people with our own interests, ideas, thoughts, struggles, and strengths.
