CHARLOTTE, N.C. — There's no denying the important role teachers play in kids’ lives. This morning Sonja Gantt, Executive Director CMS Foundation and Olivette Myers, Elementary Guidance Counselor are joining us. "Teacher Talks" is right around the corner. Teacher Talks is an annual event that uplifts and celebrates the voices of educators in our community. Each year, CMS educators take the stage in front of a live audience to deliver powerful and inspiring talks based on their ideas and experiences in the classroom. “This is our sixth year and we have had so many awesome teaches share their stories” says Gantt. She adds “Teacher Talk simply put is like a Ted Talk that most people are familiar with.”
Here’s a synopsis of what some teachers have added to Teacher Talk:
Staying Power is Greater than Superpowers
Elizabeth Clarke - South Charlotte Middle School
As a 30-year veteran, Elizabeth Clarke has seen A LOT in her teaching career. Despite the challenges, she’s chosen to stay. While many attribute “superpowers” to teachers, she’s found staying power is much more important. Elizabeth is a teacher at South Charlotte Middle School.
Know Who Is on Your Team
Alicia Moss - J.M. Alexander Middle School
In the midst of the pandemic, Alicia Moss trained and accomplished her goal of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. After making it to the top, she struggled to descend without the support of her team. The isolation and stress reminded her of her teaching experience. In this talk she discusses the importance of knowing who’s on your team. Alicia is a Career & Technical Education teacher at J.M. Alexander Middle School in Huntersville, NC.
Restore Your Joy!
Olivette Myers - Ranson Middle School
“I found myself at a very low point in her career” says Myers. She adds “What started as an inspiring profession devolved into days of sobbing in the school parking lot.” “I was prepared to leave; but through deep reflection, I realized where and how I had lost my joy and designed a plan to get it back.” “When I presented last year it was about my personal journey that I thought I could help people who were struggling” says Myers. She adds” if my story could encourage people then I was all for it.” “The program is an outstanding one and I would encourage many not only teachers to attend.”
The Teacher Talks event is open to the public, providing a unique learning experience for the entire community. We're excited to invite you to Teacher Talks 2024: Evolve. Join us for a powerful and inspiring evening as we elevate the voices of educators in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
Here are the details:
Teacher talks 2024 Tickets are $25 for the Public, and FREE for CMS Staff
March 14 in Halton Theater at CPCC
1206 Elizabeth Avenue, Charlotte
Reception starts at 5:00PM | Talks begin at 6:00PM
For more information visit Cms-Foundation.org/Voices/Teacher-talks.