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Can you tell us about yourself? 

Hi, my name is Ashley self and I'm a literacy specialist at Dunbar Primary in Lufkin, Texas. This is my second year at this campus and I've previously taught third grade for seven years. And this is my sixth year.

Why did you start a career in education?

In this role. I decided to start a career in education after a couple summers of being a swim coach in high school, I realized how much I loved working with kids. And I also love to read. So I really wanted to teach young kids how to read.

If you could have any other job what would it be and why?

If I could have any other job, um, outside of education, it would be as a yoga instructor.

How are kids different now than 30 years ago?

I think the kids are different all than 30 years ago because of technology and social media. They now can get information at the Palm of their hand and the way they interact and socialize with each other has changed because of these things.

How is teaching different now than 30 years ago?

I think that teaching is different now than 30 years ago as well. For the same reason technology, things like video games, YouTube and the internet are also fast-paced and engaging. We need to find more inventive ways as teachers to keep kids engaged in our lessons.

What would you tell someone who wants to become a teacher?

I would tell someone, I would tell someone who's interested in becoming a teacher that it's tough, but so very rewarding. When you're able to see that light bulb go off for a student after they use something you've taught them, or they finally read a sentence without errors. That feeling is what makes the hard work worth it. I would also say that despite the fact that the way we teach has changed over the years, one thing has stayed the same and that's the relationships you form with the students. The relationships are truly something that is irreplaceable and no matter how much, the way we teach changes, forming those bonds with the students is so important.

What would you change to help kids learn better?

One thing I would change if I could for students is the access they have to resources. I wish that resources such as books, tablets, internet, access, and other materials were available to everyone, no matter their background or their home life. I think this would benefit students greatly and help them learn better.