This is the third installment of Q&As with the teachers who have been selected as Teachers of the Year at Limestone County Schools.

Name: Brooke Holland

School: Tanner Elementary School

Grade Level(s) Taught: I am currently the K-5 math coach at Tanner Elementary School, but I have taught Pre-K, 2nd Grade and 4th Grade.

Subject(s) Taught: I am the math coach, but I love to integrate reading in my lessons anytime that I can.

Degrees & Granting Institutions, Special Certifications and/or Training:

— Masters of Science in Education, Reading Specialist, Grades P-12

— Bachelor of Science in Education, Early Childhood and Elementary Education Grade P-6

— LETRS Early Childhood

— Diane Sweeney Level 1 Coaching Workshop

— Various math trainings including some OGAP, AMSTI and OMI trainings

How many years have you been in education?

This is my ninth year in education.

How many are with Limestone County Schools?

This is my fourth year teaching at Limestone County Schools.

What makes you proud to be an educator?

I am proud to be an educator because I see the impact that high quality education has on students’ lives everyday. I work alongside classroom teachers that are eager to help their students reach their goals. As a team, we are working together to create a school climate that values mathematics. I know every adult member of my school is working non-stop to make differences in our students’ lives.

What has your experience in the education field taught you?

My experiences in the education field teach me something new everyday. I learn from administrators, teachers and other coaches daily. When I am in a classroom, I take away so many new ideas each and every time I visit. I probably learn the most from our students. I learn through watching them preserve and explain their thinking. I have learned that all students can accomplish anything!

What do you enjoy most about working for Limestone County Schools?

I enjoy working for Limestone County Schools because the teachers, administrators, and central office personnel truly are focused on what students need to succeed. The teachers that I encounter are focused on meeting students where they are and providing them the instruction and support they need to be successful. Additionally, administrators and central office personnel have always supported me and encouraged me to make mathematics a priority at my school.

How do your students inspire you?

My students inspire me because despite any obstacle, they are able to persevere and focus on their goals! They work hard–even when things are challenging. This shows their incredible amount of determination and perseverance.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children–Ella Grace, Bennett, and Beckham. I especially love family trips to Disney World!

What is your favorite quote?

“Teaching math without manipulatives is like teaching reading without books.”

The Alabama Teacher of the Year Program honors and recognizes excellence in the teaching profession by identifying outstanding classroom teachers at local, district and state levels. The Teacher of the Year Program is open to any public school classroom teacher, librarian, counselor or other certified individuals in a K-12 setting.

The Limestone County Schools System honored each Teacher of the Year at the annual Teacher of the Year Banquet held on Monday, Dec. 2. The Limestone County Schools District-Level Elementary (K-6) and Secondary (7-12) Teacher of the Year, along with the Educational Support Person of the Year, was announced at the special event. These teachers will then represent Limestone County Schools in the Alabama Teacher of the Year state competition.