Isla W., Teen Rep Communications Specialist & Newsletter Contributor
Jan 27, 2025
One teacher’s belief in a 9-year-old changed everything—even if it took me years to realize it. From Florida’s first Accelerated Math Plan to AP Calculus and Harvard courses, Mrs. Russell saw potential before I did. Eight years later, I finally got the chance to thank her.
I was in the second grade when that one teacher changed the course of my academic career. Although, I didn't realize it until I was in high school. Which I suppose is how it usually goes: kids rarely recognize the impact of others or how good they have it until years later. It was during second grade, in the IB PY Programme (International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme) that Mrs. Russell selected me for Florida's Accelerated Mathematics Plan (AMP), the very first year the program was launched. At the age of 9, I didn't realize the potential Mrs. Russell saw in me - that I could do more than what was expected of me.
Fast forward to 11th grade, and I’m currently taking AP Calculus AB, along with five other AP classes and two Honors courses. This past summer, I had the opportunity to take two college-level courses on campus at Harvard. Mrs. Russell saw something in me when I was just 9 years old, and while my classes aren’t always easy, I’m grateful to her for putting me on this path - one that’s allowed me to double up on AP science courses in high school and better prepare myself to apply to the STEM college programs I’m passionate about.
After eight years, I was excited to reconnect with Mrs. Russell and ask her a few questions that had been on my mind.
Mrs. Russell, what inspired you to become a teacher?
I always wanted to become a teacher. When I was little, I would "play school" with my sister. In high school, I volunteered in the Future Educators of America Club and volunteered in teachers' classrooms. The teachers would have me teach lessons. I thought it was so fun. I loved everything about the idea of having my own classroom.
What advice would you give me as I prepare for my future?
Take the risk, enjoy yourself, and make good choices. Don't hold yourself back for anyone. True friends will want you to live your dreams.
What do you think makes someone a good role model?
A good role model has empathy, integrity, and a positive attitude. Remember the I.B. Profiles and Attitudes? They describe a good role model! I have used the I.B. Learner Profile as a guide throughout my career.
What challenges have you faced in your teaching career, and how did you overcome them?
In 2018, I received my Master's Degree in Educational Leadership. I did everything I needed to do to become an administrator. I worked hard, made connections, and thoroughly enjoyed the process. When it was time to find a position that would lead to an administrative role, COVID-19 happened. One interview was canceled because it was the day after schools shut down. I interviewed virtually for the first time. I ended up accepting a position teaching 7th-grade language arts. I thought this would help me become a middle school administrator. It did not.
In retrospect, I had two chances for positions that would lead to an administrative role. The first one was canceled, and the second one, I canceled the interview because I was offered a middle school teaching position. Now, four years later, I understand that timing is everything sometimes. I made a choice to go to middle school, and I learned so much during my time, but it did not take my career where I thought it would go. It took some time and lots of thinking, but I accepted that maybe it wasn't meant to be.
I decided last spring that I needed to teach where I would have a very different experience. I am now teaching 5th grade in Alachua County in Gainesville. I teach at what is called a "fragile" school. I am learning SO much. The children I teach are kind, thoughtful, and fun. Their situations in life are often challenging. I have learned about poverty, homelessness, violence, and abuse. The students I teach are very low academically. I teach with teachers who have devoted their careers to helping these students. Now, I have a whole new set of challenges to overcome. Thank goodness, I have the knowledge I have learned throughout my career. I use it every day to help the students I teach to succeed.
What’s one thing you wish every student understood about their teachers?
I wish students understood that teachers are human and can only listen to one person talk at a time!
Do you remember anything specific about me as a 2nd grader?
As a 2nd grader, I remember your smile. I can remember you walking up to my desk and asking what else you could do with a big grin. We talked about Disney World and animals! 🥰
Teachers like Mrs. Russell don’t always hear the impact they’ve had on their students. So, Mrs. Russell, thank you - for seeing potential in a 9-year-old and for giving me the nudge I needed!
International Baccalaureate (IB)
IB is a global leader in international education - developing inquiring, knowledgeable, confident, and caring young people. The IB continuum of programmes are designed to develop well-rounded individuals who can respond to today’s challenges with optimism and an open mind. LEARN MORE: https://www.ibo.org/
About the Author:
Isla is a high school student at a local art school, a lifetime Mensan and Mensa Honor Society member, and serves as both our Communications Specialist and Newsletter Contributor. With a passion for zoology and a love of science, she’s preparing for college and aiming high—her sights are set on UC Davis or the University of Glasgow. Click here to learn more about Isla!