Meet Caitlyn Osborne-Parris, RCS 9-12 Teacher of the Year

 
Who influenced you most to become an educator and what makes them special?

Osborne-Parris: I had so many amazing educators in my life; I truly lucked out when it came to teachers-- all the way from K through college! My first teacher was my mom! She is also an ESL teacher, and I get to work with her at BHS now. I believe having so many great educators in my life inspired me to follow this path.

 

What do you enjoy about working with high school students, specifically at Blackman?

Osborne-Parris: I love that high schoolers are really making choices about the type of person they want to grow into; it's exciting to be there for that. They are honestly hilarious, and I love hearing their thoughts on things. BHS is a special place where students are encouraged to participate, and teachers work together to hold their students to a high standard. I appreciate that the majority of staff and students really want to learn!

 

Name one thing you hope your students remember about you 10 years from now.

Osborne-Parris: I hope the students remember that I really care about them. I want them to be the best they can be, and I hope I have done all I can to help them in whatever that looks like for them.

 

What advice would you give a new college graduate entering their own classroom for the first time this fall?

Osborne-Parris: Building rapport with and among students will do wonders for your classroom environment. Get to the know the students as people; find out what they are interested in. Encourage them to get to know one another as well.