Brenda Jackson – Warner Robins Middle School

Brenda Jackson is the 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year for Warner Robins Middle School. She just completed her 18th year of teaching. Jackson was born and raised in Lamar County, Georgia and attended all public schools there. After graduating high school, she earned her bachelor’s degree in social work and master’s degree in education from Piedmont College. She is a certified middle grades language arts and social studies teacher. Jackson has taught at Warner Robins Middle School for the past 10 years and said she is honored to be a part of the Warrior family.

Why Teaching?/What brought you into this field?

“I became a teacher because I have always known that helping others to grow or improve is my true passion. As a young child surrounded by family members who were educators, I was always playing school. I originally went into social work as a career field, but I continued to dream about being a teacher. I feel that my experience as a social worker enhanced my capacity for understanding others, especially challenging individuals. As a mother, I realize how important it is to have effective teachers in the classroom, and I strive to be that influence for my students.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“In high school my favorite teacher was Ms. Prater. I would watch her in action and often times wondered if this was something that I could do as well as she did. She was a firm disciplinarian, but every student loved her. Though she was strict, she was always there for all her students. I also come from a line of educators; my grandmother, cousins, and my sister were all educators. My sister, of course, was my biggest cheerleader when I transitioned from social work to education. I could truly tell that Ms. Prater and my sister loved what they did, and the more they showed love and discipline, the more love and respect they received. Therefore, I try to emulate that in my classroom.”

What do you like most about teaching?/What is the best part?

“I like teaching because it gives me a platform to teach and hopefully influence students for the future. I am aware that teaching is different since I was in school, but being able to make a difference in the lives of others will forever remain the same. Making a positive impact in student lives is rewarding to me.”

What is the most challenging part of teaching?

“I love working with students and watching them grow and learn; however, sometimes the demands on teachers today limit our ability to do what we love the most. Paperwork and other requirements can be time consuming. I am most content in my classroom, surrounded by students who are engaged in learning.”

Advice to students

“My advice to students is to never give up, believe in yourself, tackle the hard work, and always respect yourself and others. If you do these things, you shall reap dividends in due season.”

Advice to parents

“My advice to parents is that learning does not stop at the end of the school day. Converse with your children about the school day and make sure they read anything of their choice for at least 20 minutes. Reading is the most effective way of improving academic performance in all areas.”