Lee J. James
Mississippi Teacher of the Year
Choctaw County Career & Technology Center, Ackerman
Grades 10-12, Agriculture Power and Machinery Operations

My teaching philosophy
I believe all students have the ability to learn. It is up to us, as educators, to find the methods that fit the students’ learning styles. I believe all students should stay in school and get an education. We must encourage students to stay in school, and get an education that will help make them productive citizens.

My philosophy in action
I continually strive to develop teaching methods that will fit the needs of my students’ learning styles while maintaining a level of teaching that does not bore more gifted students. I try to make my students think by incorporating problem solving approaches to my curriculum.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
My greatest accomplishment as a teacher is seeing my students excel in school and life. Whether it be in competitions or a student returning to my department to say thank you for what I did for them, I can think of no greater accomplishment for a teacher.

The most critical issues facing educators today
The most critical issues facing educators today are twofold, one being student apathy and the other being student drop out. Our students have become complacent about their studies and often drop out of school because of boredom or because they think things are better out in the world.

Ways to resolve this issue
We, as educators, must encourage our students on a daily basis to develop their talents and commit themselves to getting the best education possible. Creative ways of teaching will help keep students interested and dedicated to learning.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
We, as educators, don’t have jobs – we have a career that gives us the opportunity to mold young minds to learn, and become the leaders of the future. We have an awesome responsibility, and I believe it takes a special individual to meet the task of educating our young people.

One lesson every student should learn
Students have as much responsibility as the educators in their schools. Students need to understand that teachers have their good days as well as bad, just like students. Students need to be prepared to enter each classroom with the attitude that they are going to learn something that day.

Back to the 2007 Teacher Profiles home page