Teachers work tirelessly to instruct students and face the responsibility of developing the next generation of leaders. In this episode of Thrive Y’all, Rocket IT shines the spotlight on Gwinnett County Public Schools Teacher of the Year, Katie Blum, to hear about the importance of developing a space where students have a sense of belonging.

In this episode, you’ll hear more about:

• What it takes to win GCPS‘ 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year Award
• How Katie creates a “Blum Class Family” with her students
• The importance of developing a space where students feel like they belong
• The emphasis Katie Blum places on building relationships at Sugar Hill Elementary
• How Sugar Hill Elementary‘s staff supports the professional development of its teachers
• Sugar Hill Elementary’s “1:1 Changemaker” Pilot Program
• The importance of “Carpet Time” in elementary school classes
• How Katie’s mentors influenced her early teaching career
• How the Mentor, Mentee Program helps new teachers find their place at Sugar Hill Elementary

Resources Mentioned:

Gwinnett County Public Schools

Sugar Hill Elementary

Sugar Hill Elementary’s 1:1 Changemaker Pilot Program