This feature is featured in the January 2024 issue of Horizons, SISD's magazine.
Paige Decker, SES
HIGHLIGHT
The best part of my first-year teaching at Sunnyvale ISD is knowing that I am making a positive impact on students’ lives. It has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of teaching. I also have loved building relationships with my co-workers. They have been so supportive and I truly feel like I’m a part of a great team.
SUPPORT
I’m so blessed to have so much support around me. My family and the staff have given me more help than I could ever ask for. They have encouraged me every step of the way, and I can not thank them enough.CHALLENGE
The biggest challenge is balancing work and personal life, like making sure I’m prepared each day while also trying to remind myself to set boundaries for self care.
Ashley Simpson, SIS
HIGHLIGHT
The best part about being a first-year teacher in Sunnyvale is the memorable moments with my third graders. Everything from the "aha" moments to a funny joke they teach me will stick with me throughout my teaching career.
SUPPORT
I have received so much support this year. I have a phenomenal mentor teacher and math team who guide me through the curriculum and answer all of my questions. My administration is always there when I need them and help me out with anything that I need along with making teaching fun!
CHALLENGE
The biggest challenge is juggling all of the things as a teacher. I didn't realize how many things teachers do throughout the day and on the weekends! It is so rewarding to teach in Sunnyvale, and I am so thankful to be here!
Kenzie Stevens, SMS Life Skills
HIGHLIGHT
The best part of my first year of teaching is the relationships and bonds I have built with my students and watching them grow!
SUPPORT
I am very thankful for the amount of support I have received through Sunnyvale. I have received support through attending first year teacher meetings with Jennifer Settle, my mentor teachers, Mitzi Miller, and the staff at SMS. I am also fortunate to be working along side two paraprofessionals, Brittany Ball and Bertha Torres. They support me everyday in and out of the classroom.
CHALLENGE
A challenge I have faced is learning how to best manage my time and teach to all different styles of learning!
Alexandria Fussell, SHS Teacher
HIGHLIGHT
As cliche as it sounds, the best part of being a first-year teacher at Sunnyvale ISD has been getting to know these amazing students. I can teach what I am passionate about because these students are eager to learn and are genuinely great kids. When I told family and friends that I had gotten a job at Sunnyvale High School, every single person expressed just how amazing the school, admin, and students are; I get it now. They make being a first-year teacher enjoyable and easier.
SUPPORT
I have received the best support I could have ever asked for! First, and most supportive, is my co-teacher, Carie Stanfill. Before the school year began, I was texting her multiple times a day with questions, and she was always happy to help. Since then, she is helping me build confidence, meet my goals, and become a successful teacher. Jennifer Settle has been nothing short of amazing. She has frequent first-time-teacher meetings that are like a breath of fresh air. Every single teacher and admin here at Sunnyvale has been so encouraging and quick to help. Lastly, my husband has been incredible and supportive. I can’t imagine doing all of this without him!
CHALLENGE
The biggest challenge has been time management/scheduling. As a brand new teacher, making a schedule for an entire school year is extremely difficult. You never truly know how the students will grasp a concept, or how long an assignment may take, so you have to adjust based on the students, too. I am also having to learn how to prioritize grading/planning and not taking too much work home!