Tami Karimoto – C.B. Watson Primary

Tami Karimoto is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for C.B. Watson Primary School. She was born and raised in Hawaii, and after graduating high school, she went on to graduate from the University of Northern Colorado with her bachelor’s degree. Karimoto then earned her master’s and specialist degrees. She taught in Colorado for five years and then moved to Georgia in 2013, where she was hired onto C.B. Watson Primary. Karimoto is an ESOL (English as a second language) teacher. 

Why teaching/What brought you into this field?

“I just always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was little. It’s all I’ve wanted to do. My dad was a teacher and then I have a lot of other family members who were teachers as well. When I got to college and started taking classes, it just confirmed that this was for me.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“I have always had good teachers. There was not one I didn’t like or enjoy in my class. My Dad has been retired now, and he not only was a teacher but he was an administrator and vice principal. I still call him for advice. I see myself being the type of teacher he was with his students. I lean on him a lot.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

“The kids. Seeing their growth or when they get that light bulb moment, finally understanding the lesson. I also enjoy making an impact by helping students become amazing citizens or adults – help mold them into great people.”

What is the most challenging part of teaching?

“Balancing everything. We still have our lesson plans, paperwork side of it and then being able to put as much effort into the kids and their families. Also your home life, finding a balance there as well. Just making sure things don’t get too chaotic.

Advice to students

“Don’t be afraid to take a chance. Take the risk and try it. Even if it doesn’t work, you’ll know what to do – change it, and just keep trying. Be brave enough to take that risk.”

Advice to parents

“Have a conversation with your child. You’ll learn so much from what they say. I think a lot of children now, I see the kid’s vocabulary is lower or social skills are not there. I know we all get so busy, but while driving in the car, talk to them. Dinnertime, talk to them, and I think that goes a long way.”