With 29 tremendous years teaching math at Cordell Elementary, Janis Switzer is more than deserving of the spotlight! Mrs. Switzer aims to change the lives of her students while always encouraging them to do what’s right. Continue reading to see for yourself why Mrs. Switzer was chosen as this week’s Cordell Blue Devil Faculty Spotlight.
Can you tell me just a little bit about yourself?
My name is Janis Switzer. I teach 5th and 6th grade math. This is my 29th year of teaching math at Cordell Elementary.
What are your goals for the second half of the school year?
Normalcy is my goal for the 2nd half of this school year. We have had to adapt to unexpected conditions while being challenged to connect with students and families. I am so proud of my students, they have adjusted to the craziness of doing online lessons and communicating with me while being home.
What has been your favorite moment from this year?
I really don’t have one favorite moment. I love my students. I love interacting with them and I love when they see the connection between what they are learning and their personal lives.
Can you describe the moment you knew you wanted to be a teacher?
Oh gosh, I don’t remember? I really never thought about being anything but a teacher. I was blessed with great teachers while growing up.
What subject/grade do you teach and why that specific one?
I teach 5th and 6th grade math. I’ve spent my entire teaching career at Cordell Elementary and have taught 5th, 6th or a combination of the two for 29 years. Some days are challenging, but I love it. I often learn as much from my students as they learn from me.
What motivates you to be the best teacher you can be for your students? I hope to make a difference in the lives of my students. I hope to influence their decisions and behaviors just a little bit and someday as they get older, they might remember something positive I said or did to help them.
When you’re not teaching, how do you like to spend your time?
I love spending time with family and friends. My husband, Daren, and I have been married for 28 years and we have two boys, Preston and Paxton. I love spending quality time with them and my dad. My small circle of friends mean the world to me as well.
Do you have any advice for your students?
My advice to my students is to stay true to yourself. Do NOT let others encourage you to do things you know are not right.