Teacher of the Day: Tedra Thompson

Today's teacher is Tedra Thompson. Though she has taught for the Saturday Enrichment Program in the past, this is her first year as a teacher for the Summer Enrichment Program.

Tedra teaches "American and International Folklore" for 5th and 6th graders.

What's your class like? Can you describe it for us?

My class focuses on the field of folkloristics. During the class, students are exposed to various types of folklore: myths, legends, fables, fairytales, and pourquois. Students will be given the opportunity to try on expert roles of folklorists, literary tellers, and storytellers. Then, they will choose one expert role to pursue and present their work at a class folklore festival.

What's something about you that someone might not expect if they didn't know you well?

I have been skydiving!

What made you want to teach at SEP?

After having such a great experience at the Saturday Enrichment Program, I decided to apply for the Summer Enrichment Program. I have a PK-6 teaching licensure and will graduate from UVA with a M.Ed. in gifted education this December. So this program seemed very applicable to me.

What do you think is the most difficult part of the job?

I think the most difficult part of the job is only having the students for nine days because by the time you get to know the students well, the program is at an end.

What do you think is the most rewarding part of the job?

I think the most rewarding part of the job is when students become really engaged and their subject interest is sparked.

What do you think about gifted education?

I am currently working on my masters in gifted education. I believe that gifted education is good education for all.

Given infinite supplies and opportunities, what sort of class would you teach?

I would love to have folklorists, literary tellers, and storytellers come in and share information about their jobs and area of expertise with the students.

What's your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is messiness!