September 4, 2019
Tennesseans for Student Success welcomes you to Inside TNSuccess. Read below for important news happening around the state in the education space and ways you can get involved and stay informed.
Tennesseans for Student Success recently released polling results displaying Tennesseans overwhelming support for vocational and alternative post-secondary opportunities for Tennessee students. This data was collected from July 9 – August 5, 2019 with 2000 respondents.
Please see the following statement from Tennesseans for Student Success President and CEO, Adam Lister:
“As Tennessee continues to lead the way for students to obtain long-term success through various post-secondary opportunities, it’s encouraging to see the broad support for policies shown to improve student learning. This data continues to build on the success we’ve seen over the past decade in Tennessee, and I’m hopeful that data like this will help shape how we move forward as a state. Ensuring students are career-ready will pave the way for more opportunities for greater economic stability in adulthood.”
To view the polling data, click here.
On September 16th, Tennesseans for Student Success will release our third annual Tennessee SuccessCard, which is our version of a report card for each member of the Tennessee General Assembly.
Tennesseans for Student Success publishes this report to ensure parents, teachers and advocates for high-quality public education have, at their fingertips, a detailed analysis of each legislative session, its impact on public education and an easy-to-understand report on how each member of the Tennessee General Assembly voted on the policies that drive student achievement in the state. Learn more at TNSuccessCard.com.
Why did you choose your profession?
From the minute I started school, teachers were my heroes. I do not remember a time in my life when I didn’t want to be a teacher. I was the student who was always helping other students with their homework. Everyone else thought I should be a teacher too. I knew from the start that this was my passion; this is what I wanted to do with my life. In teaching, you can’t rest on your laurels. The playing field is always shifting. To be effective at your craft, you must “adapt and overcome.”
Where do you draw inspiration from the most?
I love the kids—they inspire me to keep learning; I love the legacy of excellence that Maryville is known for; I love the community—if you host an event, they show up to support and help you. I also love the fact that over 40 of my former students now serve in the Maryville City School System. They are my legacy—and sharing in their growth and accomplishments is the greatest tribute that I could ever receive.
What advice do you have for the generation after you?
Welcome to the greatest profession in the world! You have chosen a job—no, a way of life–where you have the opportunity to change the world—one student at a time! As Henry Adams once said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” As you advance in your career, I would like to offer this advice: be a lifelong learner; be open to change; stay active both physically and mentally; find a community of learners to challenge and support you; keep a sense of humor; and, remember your “why.”
On Friday, August 23, House members of the 111th General Assembly elected their second speaker of the year during a special session, called in by Governor Lee in June. Cameron Sexton of Crossville officially took over as leader over the House chamber, following the resignation of former Speaker Glen Casada.
We’re in the final stretch of Tristar Reads with only ONE WEEK left.
Today, we are highlighting the most extraordinary superheroes… YOU! Every human being that has ever lived, or will live, is unique. You are truly one-of-a-kind. Since you are so unique, why not celebrate that fact?
This summer, we are committed to preventing the summer slide and it starts by standing out. Join us as we log our reading hours and sign up for Tristar Reads today! Learn more at tristarreads.com. You’ll be entered for the chance to win a $1,000 scholarship! Sign up for our weekly Tristar Reads email today!
Do you want to learn more about how to advocate for Tennessee students and get involved in our TSS events? Check out our online advocacy portal here.