Rachel Dozier – Lake Joy Primary School

Rachel Dozier is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for Lake Joy Primary School.

Dozier was born in Valdosta, Georgia, and raised in Oregon and Thomasville, Georgia. She then went on to Valdosta State University to major in physical education. Dozier’s first job was a paraprofessional teacher in Tifton, Georgia for two years. She then moved to Warner Robins in 2012 and was a pre-k teacher. In 2015 she was hired on to Lake Joy Primary as a pre-k teacher.

Why teaching/What brought you into this field?

“My mom is primarily is the person who inspired me to teach. I was home-schooled from third grade to ninth grade. She was my teacher. I was diagnosed with an attention deficit disorder. She figured out ways to overcome my learning skills and taught me to not give in or give up, and seek out learning the best. Her stamina and persistence and gentle way of going about things really helped. She was the best teacher and had the best reading character voices ever.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“There was actually a teacher I worked with who inspired me in a different way. I used to go home so burdened because of some of the situations the children were in such as their home life. It got to the point where it affected my heart and head, carrying it home. I couldn’t figure out a separation for that. What she told me one time, and I don’t necessarily agree with it, but she said, “Rachel, there’s no way you can change every child or reach every child; it’s just impossible.” But I do feel like I can and every teacher can reach one way or another and help them. Even if it’s for a small window of time; that’s why you’re there as a teacher.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

“Their love for life, for learning, and for me. They just, the minute they come in that door, you are their family. That is my family, my 22 are my family. I would also say getting to know them, and seeing how they learn. They’re like little sponges and soak up everything, which is very rewarding to just to see the effect you have on them and actually carry it forward. And last, just watching them on their path of growth through each grade.”

What is the most

challenging part of

teaching?

“To tell you the truth, the most challenging thing about teaching is the data collection. It’s a data-driven world. It takes away from the time you have with your children. And so, it’s a challenge to prioritize. But once you got a good team helping you along the way, then it makes it a little more easy.”

Advice to students

“Press on. When you’re weary, take a break if you need to, but finish it out. Do your very best, and always walk away knowing you did your best.”

Advice to parents

“Spend time with your children in conversation and communication because language, especially at this young age, is so important. It’s priority. We get distracted with technology, and it is highly important that you limit it. Have those conversations in the car, at the grocery store, dinner, or wherever. They want you, they need you, and they love you.”