TEACHER'S CORNER: TEACHER ENJOYS CHALLENGING STUDENTS

Fourth-grade teacher Julie McDonough became a teacher because she enjoys helping others to achieve. Teaching is a constant challenge, she said, but it's very gratifying to see students become excited about learning.

"It is nice knowing that the school is a place where the students can count on caring teachers to provide consistent routines for learning," said McDonough, who for the past four years has taught at Nell Holcomb School.

McDonough said she uses various teaching techniques to help her students achieve their highest potential. Many of the projects are rotated or changed from year to year to fit student's individual needs.

"Throughout the year we complete creative writing assignments on the computer, science experiments and lots of hands-on assignments," she said. "We also develop group skills by working with partners and small groups."

Besides challenging her students throughout the school day, McDonough also enjoys challenging herself when she is at home. The Jackson resident enjoys exercising -- especially walking and playing golf -- as well as working in her yard, reading, traveling and playing the piano.