She went on to say that technology has affected everything from the central office to the classrooms , athletics , school operations and facilities . It is rather common , now , she said , for all administrative staff , teachers and support staff to have ongoing technology training .
“ Technology is involved in all phases of teaching and educating students . It has truly changed the way we communicate with each other in society , as well ,” Hill said .
When asked what she thought was the biggest challenge that educators face today , she responded that teachers are called upon to wear many hats now to help their students learn and succeed .
“ In today ’ s world , they have to teach the whole child . Having sufficient time to teach and support each student can be quite challenging ,” Hill said .
She said that teaching different levels of ability , encouraging student participation and parental involvement can also be challenging .
“ Teachers also must keep an eye on the student ’ s mental health . They have to deal with so many issues that impact the classroom . These are different times now ,” she said .
She said this was why it was so important for teachers to have ongoing support from their administrators , support staff , and school boards . She said they needed to have the necessary resources to help students do well in school .
“ The well-being of the teachers should be considered also . They should be able to enjoy performing their duties and working with their students within the classroom ,” Hill said .
As far as advice she would give someone who was going into the field of education , she suggested that he or she research the desired profession first . She said , talk with others who have been in that area of education for some time and then make the decision on whether to pursue it or not .
“ I would share that teaching is a rewarding and noble profession . One should be excited about entering the profession . To be a good fit , one must have love , compassion , patience , and empathy when working with children ,” she said . “ Be excited ! If you are not , you cannot expect the
A reception was held in Hill ’ s honor after the school board meeting . Photo by Adelia Ladson students to be excited about learning when they enter the classroom . Remember that energy radiates from you .”
She also advised that a teacher know their content and to be creative and enthusiastic about the content being taught and to also realize that all students learn differently . She said to focus on teaching students the way they learn and to encourage students to ask questions when they do not understand .
“ Be sure to let students know what your expectations are on day one . Knowing how to manage your classroom is extremely important . You cannot teach students if you cannot maintain order in your classroom ,” Hill said .
She added that developing a good relationship with both parents and students would make the job much easier .
“ It has always been about making a difference in the students ’ lives . I am so thankful for being afforded the opportunity to work with the students . I knew I had found my calling , and it became my lifelong career , which I truly enjoyed ,” Hill said .
In addition to her service to education in Colquitt County , Hill has served on the boards of organizations including Habitat for Humanity , the Colquitt County Arts Center , Communities in Schools , National Night Out / Neighborhood Watch , the Colquitt County Complete Count Census Committee , the Boys and Girls Club , Colquitt County Certified Literate Community , Colquitt County Family and Consumer Sciences , Court Appointed Special Advocates , and the Judicial Citizen Review Panel for foster care .
26 MoultrieScene AUGUST 2024