Parks always knew that teaching was her calling. After earning her degree in Early Childhood Education from McMurry, she immediately applied the skills she gained to support the growth, learning, and well-being of her second-grade students at Martinez Elementary School. With a deep understanding of her students’ needs, Parks adapts her teaching methods and classroom environment to ensure each child can thrive.
Her passion for teaching stems from a lifelong love of learning. Inspired by the kindness, care, and support of her own teachers, Parks strives to inspire her students to embrace education as an exciting journey, one that offers endless opportunities for growth. She believes that by fostering a love for learning, her students will develop the confidence to tackle challenges and seek out new learning experiences.
For the past eight years, Parks has been teaching at Martinez Elementary in Abilene ISD, creating a supportive, nurturing space where her students can explore, make mistakes, and grow. Beyond her classroom, Parks actively volunteers in campus programs that further enhance student learning, strengthening the school community as a whole.
The sudden shift to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge, but Parks’ commitment to her students never wavered. Though it was difficult to say goodbye before the school year ended, her campus came together to create a video expressing how much they missed and cared for the students. While time with her students always feels too short, Parks takes comfort in knowing they will continue to be loved and supported by their next teacher.
One of the most valuable lessons Parks has learned in her career is the importance of pacing and balance. Whether it’s her own tasks or her students’ assignments, she encourages the mindset that it’s okay not to complete everything in one day. Through “work in progress” folders, Parks fosters a sense of pride in her students, showing them that quality matters more than rushing to finish. This approach promotes growth, both in their work and in themselves.
Parks’ classroom is more than just a place of learning; it’s a family. She deeply cares for her students and is dedicated to their success, always offering support and encouragement. Her personal commitment to her students extends beyond the school day, ensuring they know they are valued and important.
Outside of the classroom, Parks has found a way to maintain balance in her life. By keeping task lists at work, she stays organized and focused, leaving her evenings free to dedicate her full attention to her family, dog, and friends. She believes in the importance of quality time, whether it’s reading, cooking, or enjoying music with loved ones. Parks understands that caring for herself and her personal relationships is key to being the best teacher she can be.
Reflecting on her career, Parks feels incredibly grateful that it has unfolded exactly as she envisioned during her time at McMurry. Her teachers inspired her to be kind, supportive, and resilient, and now she strives to create that same environment for her own students. For Parks, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring a lifelong love of learning, and showing her students that with patience, care, and dedication, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
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