T H E
L I S T
BEST TE ACHERS 24 Tell us a success story about a student you helped. Several years ago, one of
my sixth grade students was having an emotional meltdown in class because he
did not pass his second consecutive quiz. I stopped teaching, put my hand on my
hips and quickly decided to capture this teachable moment by telling a story. So I
explained to the entire class that I am the parent and teacher who will not let you
fall. When you first learn to ride a bike, you fall o a few times before you learn.
Falling is part of learning. But, I am the parent who says get back up and keep
riding. I am right here with you. And because I am this type a parent, I am also this
type of teacher. A few weeks past and another student starts getting upset and
sobbing like a baby about missing a problem. I went over to him and said you will
make mistakes and that’s part of growing. It’s okay. Try to pull it together. And
he’s shaking his head in agreement. Then I said what are you going to do now?
He looked up at me while my struggling to stay calm and said I am going to keep
riding. I replied that’s it, get back up and keep riding. My student had no idea that
I was not expecting that response. My goal is to fill my students with hope and
the understanding that you must get back up and keep riding. Each year since I
start o with the bike story.
Tracey
Lynch
Current school and grade (subject): Cobb Online Learning Academy — seventh and eighth grade social studies
Other schools/grades/subjects previously taught: Certified general and special educator with multiple areas
of certifications in middle grades math, social studies, ELA, reading, interrelated and gifted endorsement.
How many years have you been an educator? 17
COBB LIFE | JANUARY 2022