05/12/2026
🍎✨ BEST TEACHER SPOTLIGHT ✨🍎
Today we’re celebrating another one of the very best!
Erica Shepherd
Has been teaching for 10 years and is currently a Special Education teacher for grades 9th-12th at Pike County High School
Her reason why:
I wanted to be a teacher because I enjoy helping students who may struggle in a traditional classroom find success in their own way. As a student, many things came naturally to me, but I remember noticing classmates who struggled to understand the same material. Seeing that made me want to help make learning clearer and more accessible for others. That experience really stuck with me and played a big role in my decision to become a teacher. I have always had a passion for supporting others, and I wanted to be someone who makes sure every student feels seen, supported, and capable. I also want students to understand that there are many paths to success, and going to college right after high school is just one of many options. At the end of the day, I know students may not always remember exactly what I taught them, but they will always remember how I made them feel, and that is something I take seriously every day.
Her Favorite thing about teaching:
My favorite thing about teaching is seeing growth, especially in students who did not believe in themselves at first. As a special education teacher, those small wins mean everything. Whether it is a student advocating for themselves, turning in work consistently, improving their reading level, or just gaining confidence to try, those moments are huge. I also enjoy building strong relationships with my students and creating a safe, supportive space where they feel comfortable asking for help. Another part I love is helping students realize their strengths and understand that success looks different for everyone. Being able to meet students where they are, support them in different ways, and watch them make progress over time is what makes teaching so rewarding for me.
Her most memorable moment as a teacher:
One of my most memorable moments was when a student told me that, as his teacher, I was his Ruth from the Bible. I asked him how, and he went into detail explaining why he considered me his Ruth, saying it was because I stayed consistent, supported him even when things were difficult, and did not give up on him. He shared that I listened to him, encouraged him, and made him feel like he mattered, even on days when he felt like giving up. That really stayed with me. It showed me that the relationship we built went beyond academics and that he felt supported, cared for, and not alone. Moments like that remind me that teaching is not just about lessons and assignments, it is about being someone students can trust and depend on.
Help us give a huge round of applause to an amazing teacher who truly makes a difference! 👏❤️ us give a huge round of applause to an amazing teacher who truly makes a difference! 👏❤️ #
