Congratulations to Allison Garris on being chosen as the November Certified Employee of the Month!
Garris is a teacher assistant at West Clayton Elementary, where her two children are students. She is married to her high school sweetheart, and they also have two dogs.
Since the age of 16, Garris has worked with children and has always dreamed of being a teacher. Garris is going back to school to earn her Bachelor of Education to fulfill that dream.
In the Spotlight Q&A, Garris shares some of the ways she builds relationships with students and staff.
Could you tell us a little about yourself?
I have been working with children since I was 16 years old, and I am going back to school to get my bachelor's in education so that I can become a teacher.
I have two children who attend West Clayton (3rd grade and 2nd grade). I am married to my high school sweetheart, and we have two dogs.
How does being named Classified Employee of the Month make you feel?
Being named the Classified Employee of the Month makes me feel accomplished and proud. I know that my hard work and dedication are being noticed by my peers and coworkers. I always strive to do my best in everything and help my team however I can.
What led you to choose your role at JCPS?
I have wanted to work for JCPS for a few years now, but I was scared to change jobs and take on a new role. However, I’m so glad I took the leap!
What have you learned or gained from working in this profession, and how would you like to grow in your role after receiving this recognition?
I have learned from this profession that every child's needs are completely different. That not every child learns the same. I pay attention to detail and have figured out what works best for each child.
I would like to grow by learning new skills to teach the children how to cope with difficult tasks and by gaining the knowledge and courses I need to one day have my own classroom and students. It has always been my dream to be a teacher!
How do you create an environment where students feel supported and able to succeed?
Students feel supported when they feel heard and validated. By really getting to know your students, you can tell what areas they need help with or if they are struggling with something internally or when they are not themselves. Building positive relationships with students builds trust, and when they trust you and know that you care, they will succeed!
Why are student and staff relationships important to you, and how do you build them?
Relationships with students and staff are important because you want to have positive experiences with the people you spend your day with. I have already made some lifelong friendships with co-workers in such a short time. I care deeply about my co-workers and students, and I always engage with them about life, work, and strive to have meaningful conversations throughout the day. I always let students know how much I care about them and their feelings.
Describe a memorable experience that had a lasting impact on you.
What made it special, and what did you learn from it? A memorable experience for me would be being awarded the November Classified Employee of the Month. I have never been recognized at my job for my hard work and dedication to my students. I have learned that no matter if I’m recognized or not, I will always do my best. Always work hard, be dedicated, and show up for the children and co-workers every day. They deserve me at my best!