You can’t walk by Ms. Debra McLendon’s classroom without seeing plenty of smiles, laughter, and engaging assignments.
“It is very fun; we have a lot of fun in here,” said McLendon, an Exceptional Education teacher at Bryan Elementary.
Creating this fun learning environment requires intentional relationship building, according to the JEFCOED Teacher of the Year finalist.
“I heard one time at a training, actually, that kids don't learn from people they don't like,” McLendon said. “That really hit home because you do have to build that relationship with them.”
As McLendon builds these powerful relationships, Bryan Principal Dr. Brandi Wilson said it’s clear she is there for her students.
“That's what's really important,” Wilson said. “And as an administrator, you just want people that love the kids.”
Ms. McLendon is one of five Elementary Teacher of the Year finalists. To meet the rest of our Elementary and Secondary finalists, click here.