Kaki Whiddon – Tucker Elementary

Kaki Whiddon is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for Tucker Elementary School. 

Whiddon is originally from Perry and graduated from The Westfield School. She earned an early childhood education degree from Georgia South Western University and her master’s degree in reading from Georgia Southern University. She got a job at Tucker Elementary in 2015. She and her husband had their first child last summer.

Why teaching/What brought you into this field?

“Growing up, I was surrounded by teachers. My grandmothers, mom, aunts and lots of other extended family and friends were teachers. Getting to watch them teach and enjoy their job so much is what drew me to this career. I also loved that my mom could be on the same schedule as us and have the summer off with us too. That drew me as well because I knew I wanted to have a family some day. Again, just seeing the joy they got was something that I wanted to have. Also in high school, I was a strong math student and teachers would ask me to help tutor others.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“I was fortunate enough to have lots of amazing teachers. One teacher that came to mind was Mrs. Beeland. Her class was so much fun and she introduced us to a lot of books. In high school Dr. Knight taught chemistry and AP physics. I was not very good at science, but his excitement made it exciting for us.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

“The kids. I definitely enjoy working with children and building relationships. They are all so unique and so fun. I have taught second and third grade while here at Tucker and I am now the EIP reading teacher. So I have gotten to see most of my students grow up, and it’s neat watching them.”

What is the most

challenging part of teaching?

“I think the most challenging part is that no two children are alike. And you have to know a lot of different things to adapt to each student. Some need extra hugs while others need tough love. Some are right at their grade level while others are a grade ahead.”

Advice to students

“One of the best pieces I could give is that reading can take you anywhere you want to go. All you have to do is open a book and you can travel different times and places and learn lots. And never stop learning, continue to learn throughout your life.”

Advice to parents

“Read with your kids. It doesn’t always have to be a book. It can be road signs or cereal boxes. Show them it’s important. All parents are good at something, so teach them what you’re interested in.”