In Their Words: Why Teachers Teach in Putnam City

Every school and every school district has its own culture. There's a feeling in the air, a common understanding about why people are there, how they go about their jobs and what their aspirations are. Here's what teachers say about teaching in Putnam City.

"When I speak with teachers in other districts or other states, I realize how amazing Putnam City is and how fortunate I am to be here. I have the honor everyday of being around people who want to be here, want to better themselves, and are truly happy to be where they are. As a district, we’re progressive in that we are constantly fine-tuning our methods of teaching and working to improve student learning. I’ve always believed there are few rewards as sweet as seeing a child's mind open up to new ideas or possibilities, and it’s wonderful to be in a community of people who feel the same way. This district is the best in the state." — Chris Ulmer, Hefner Middle School

"My childhood dream was to be a teacher. Now I’m living my dream and get to experience the thrill of seeing a student’s eyes say "I got it." What makes it even more rewarding is that as a Putnam City teacher, I get the professional development, technology and support needed to help students succeed. The teamwork and collaboration are awesome. Putnam City is simply a special place to teach." — Lynda Davis, Windsor Hills Elementary School

"I’m in my seventh year of teaching the same grade at the same school, and I wake up every day excited to go to work. My students are special, almost a part of my family. My fellow teachers are more than colleagues; they’re lifelong friends and people who share a passion for working with young children and helping them succeed. I know our school administrators support us, and the district makes sure we are prepared and equipped for the job we do. It’s the best situation a teacher could have." — Brett Payne, Tulakes Elementary School

"Putnam City is special because of its desire to have the best quality of teachers, its focus on teamwork, and its ability to shine in many facets of education. I have known Putnam City to be a powerhouse in education and music since I was in middle school. Ten years later, I see no change. I have administrators and teachers that I respect and glean so much from. As an orchestra teacher, I am in the best school district and I am very grateful for my job. It’s a challenge but I wouldn’t trade it for the world!" — Regina Irons, Western Oaks Middle School

"Team planning is a priority at my school so that we have time to discuss report card assessments, best teaching practices, alternative discipline approaches and other important issues. In addition, we’re provided excellent professional development to keep us up on the current research in education. After teaching in Putnam City for many years, I’ve become more knowledgeable in my field and have a deeper understanding of how children learn. " — Alisha Sackett, Central Elementary School

"Working with children and helping them meet their fullest potential is my passion in life. I’m so fortunate to be a teacher in Putnam City. The teachers and administrators I work with are always supportive, encouraging and willing to go the extra mile. The district provides me the materials, technology, professional development and other tools I need to be a better teacher. That all contributes greatly to my reward as a teacher: seeing students’ faces when they realize they can achieve anything if they work hard and believe in themselves." —Dolly Thomas, Western Oaks Middle School

"One of the reasons I like Putnam City is the attention to technology. Like my colleagues, I’ve been trained to use and apply technology in my classroom. That’s why we have fourth-graders who are composing PowerPoint presentations, operating digital cameras and using laptops and our wireless network to explore websites for reports. "I also like the support for professional development. Putnam City wants its teachers to be cutting-edge in the areas of educational research and its application to student learning. Because of that, I’m surrounded by educators who are equipped to meet the challenges of being a classroom teacher." — Randy Utt, James L. Dennis Elementary School

"I Iove my job and wake up every morning thankful I have it. There’s such a sense of unity here, a friendly feeling that lets you know you have support. Teachers borrow materials and share lesson plans. We talk, we discuss ideas, we get along. I’ve found my home as a teacher, and I want to stay here for a long, long time.” — Kim Ross, Putnam City High School