Name: Rodney Wilson
Grade/Subject at what school: Fourth grade, Maple Glen Elementary
Number of years teaching: 15 (eight years in Westfield)
Background/Schooling (college & high school): Wyoming Lee High School, Wyoming, Mich.; Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich.; B.B.A. Business Management, Grand Valley State University, Mich.; B.S. Mathematics and Elementary Education, Grand Valley State University; and M.A. Elementary Education, Ball State University.
Why did you become a teacher? I never really thought I would become a teacher. I started my career in the business field. After a lot of reflection and a year later, I realized that my true aspirations were to make a difference. I decided to return to school so that I could work with students and be someone who made a positive difference in their lives. I struggled in elementary school, but with a lot of hard work, I turned it around and finished high school at the top. I want to be that positive role model for my students, make learning exciting and engaging, and help guide them to realize what hard work can do for them.
What goals do you have for your students? I encourage my students to dream big, work hard, and reach for the stars. The possibilities are endless.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? The parent and teacher relationship is a partnership. A strong partnership will better help foster student success. I encourage them to get involved in their child’s education while also helping guide their child to learn, develop, and utilize those skills needed to be successful in the future. Talking about the stories they read, using real-life situations to apply the skills learned in school and finding engaging activities through technology are just a few.
What is your favorite movie? I enjoy inspirational sports movies such as Rudy and Remember the Titans.
Who is your favorite musician or band? I listen to a variety of music. It’s difficult to narrow it down to one favorite musician or band. I’m usually listening to today’s hit music, but I still find myself listening to 80’s bands such as Bon Jovi and Def Leppard too.
What’s something your students might not know about you? I played baseball in Old Comiskey Park, home of the Chicago White Sox, when I was 11. It was three innings of excitement in front of a stadium full of fans before a White Sox game. Since then I am a devoted fan.
