2002 North Carolina Teacher of the Year
Ms. Wilson teaches Mathematics to the students in grades 9 through 12 at Ashe County High School in North Carolina. She has twelve years of teaching experience.

What are your beliefs about teaching?
"I believe that all students can learn. Their backgrounds, interests and learning styles, however, vary greatly."

How are your beliefs incorporated in your teaching style?
"I get to know my students and use a variety of teaching strategies and assessment instruments. I utilize a concept called "mastery learning" in my classroom that allows students to continue working on a concept until a particular mastery level is attained. I use a variety of instructional methods such as cooperative learning, technology-based learning, experimentation, data collection and application problems. These different approaches motivate students, allow for integration of the curriculum and give them multiple opportunities to excel. I strive to provide a positive, open environment in which students feel that it is safe to take intellectual risks. On a daily basis, I adjust the pace of the lesson as necessary and pursue unanticipated opportunities for learning as they arise during the course of the lesson, even when I am not sure of all the answers.

At the end of each day, I consider how even those lessons that went well might be improved for future learning. I am continually seeking to grow professionally. As I strive to be an outstanding teacher, I work to build a strong network of communication and support among the parents of my students, my colleagues, our community and me for the benefit of my students. I am active professionally as both a mentor and a learner."

What is your greatest teaching accomplishment?
"My greatest teaching accomplishment is helping students to succeed and inspiring my students to fulfill their potential."

What's the most critical issue facing educators today and what do you think can be done to resolve this issue?
"The most critical issue facing educators today is closing the achievement gap while helping all students raise their achievement levels. This issue can be resolved by providing every child with highly qualified, caring teachers, small class sizes, and parent and community involvement."

Inspirational thought:
"We are entrusted with our world's most precious, most valuable resource, its children. As teachers, we shape the future of our world."