Mrs. Carrie Holland, 6th Grade Language Arts teacher

How many years have you been teaching or working in education?

28

How many of your years have been spent at TCMS?

6

What grade levels and subject areas have you taught or worked with?

ESE, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, all subjects

What college did you attend?

I attended Eastern Nazarene College in Boston, MA for two years before I graduated from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL.

My best days in the classroom are when...

My best days in the classroom are when students are engaged and enjoying the learning activities.  I also love to see them get excited and feel successful.

Who or what inspired you to become a teacher or to work in education?

My parents were extremely supportive, especially my mom, the professional educator. However, the inspiration came from an encouraging friend.  She pointed out some educator traits that she saw in me and exclaimed, "You should be a teacher!"  I changed my career path that very same week.

What profession other than your own would you most like to attempt?

My dream profession would be a professional fitness instructor who designs workout routines on the shores of Hawaii.  In close second, I would love to be a published author who encourages others in life.  I really admire how a writer can express his or her thoughts and have just the right words to say that motivate or move the reader.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love to workout, sing, write, and play with my family.  We LOVE to be outside!

What is one thing about you that would likely surprise your students?

I am a terrible speller, but I am a master at "spell check" and dictionary.com.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your career or yourself?

I never really felt like I was a great student during my middle school and high school years.  We had moved a lot, and I was very quiet and shy; sometimes my grades suffered as a result.  As a matter of fact, many of my teachers may have wondered if I would ever amount to anything.  But, there was a teacher who encouraged me and saw something good.  That teacher made me feel like I really could be successful and had something to offer.  I, too, believe all of our students have that same potential.  Each one has a purpose and something unique to contribute to the community.  I'm thankful for that teacher who saw potential in me and want to be the kind of teacher who inspires students as well.