Gnann Moser begins her 40th year at Valdosta High School with 45 years of service .
Q : Why did you become a teacher ? Gnann : “ I had no interest in becoming a teacher because teaching was a given in my family . After graduating from Valdosta State , I went into business . There was a history of English language class being offered at Valdosta State that my past professor thought I would be interested in . I began pursuing a master ’ s degree when I decided that I would become certified to teach English .”
Desirai Pannell
Q : What do you consider the most challenging aspect of being a teacher ? Desirai : “ The most challenging part has been watching the parent structure change over the last 15 years . You have to build that relationship with the students and their parents . As a mom , it has made it easier to be a mother-figure to my students over the years .”
Q : Explain your teaching journey . Gnann : “ I began my career at Windsor Forest in Savannah ; my first day in the classroom was a nightmare . I was teaching ninth-grade English , and I lacked classroom management skills . After the first year , I learned how to manage a classroom and spent three years there . Then , we moved to Fort Valley , where I spent three years in the Peach
Q : What motivation or inspiration kept you going ? Is there any story related to it ? Desirai : “ I have never felt burnt out . Every year on the first day of school , I still have butterflies . I always said that if one day I woke up and didn ’ t feel the same passion for my students and their education , then it was time for me to stop .”
Q : What are your hobbies ? Desirai : “ I am very passionate about charities and supporting causes . For the past 20 years , my best friend and I have been directing charity pageants to raise money for Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society . We began doing this after the passing of my mother .”
Q : What is the best advice you can give ? Desirai : “ Teachers get to know your students . I usually give parents a questionnaire at open house , build trust with your students , and show them respect .”
Gnann Moser
August 2022 | Valdosta Scene 23