Harmon Teacher: Verda Lawson
Q: How long have you worked with LISD?
A: “23 years.”
Q: What subject do you teach?
A: “Professional Communications, Sociology, Teen Leadership I and II.”
Q: What was your favorite part of being a teacher?
A: “My favorite part of being a teacher was connecting with my students and building positive relationships. When a connection is made, the learning is secondary.”
Q: What was your favorite subject to teach?
A: “This question is difficult to answer because I truly enjoyed teaching each subject. If I had to choose one, it would be 1st period Professional Communications, because it was at the beginning of the day and a good way to start the day in a positive way.”
Q: What made you want to become a teacher?
A: “When I was a little girl, I would be the “teacher” to my dolls. I would pretend to give spelling tests then grade the papers so I guess I was preparing then and destined to be a teacher. Today, I appreciate the sheer joy of being a life long learner.”
Q: Why do you think teachers play a huge role in education?
A: “I think teachers facilitate learning. In other words, students will learn if they are exposed to relevant and meaningful experiences.”
Q: Why do you think learning is so important?
A: “Learning is important because where would this world be if we did not learn? Think about everything that we enjoy today such as Apple products, space exploration, and new and innovative energy resources, just to name a few. The world would be stagnant if learning did not exist.”
Q: What motivated you to keep teaching even when it was difficult for you?
A: “When it was difficult for me, I relied on my “why.” By this I mean that teaching is my passion. It is not just a job. It is who I am and what I am.”
Q: How did you balance teaching and home life?
A: “I have a strong faith in God. He is first in my life. I have a good family support system. I found time to de-stress and rejuvenate by spending time with my family and friends, watching movies, and trying new recipes.”