On our show today, Tiffany Thurlby! She’s a P.E. teacher at Genoa-Kingston Middle School. She also was just named Middle School Professional of the Year by the Illinois Association for Health, P.E., Rec, & Dance.
We talked about how middle school can be an awkward time for some kids -- and Physical Education can also be particularly challenging for students who don’t feel as confident in themselves -- it’s Tiffany’s job to help build their confidence and help them feel strong and comfortable in their own bodies.
“I love those moments. I even go and have those personal conversations with those kids, like, ‘hey, it was awesome to see you out and moving today. This was probably the best day ever,’ and then they sit there and smile,” she said. “They take that home with them.”
We talked about teaching kids how to lift weights, her love of running, & how much fun it is to introduce her students to the dance moves she learned growing up.
If you’ve never listened to Teachers’ Lounge before, our show is based on an idea -- we’ve all had teachers in our lives who shaped who we are. And we want to hear about the teachers who inspired you or deserve a spotlight in your community. Every educator we have on this podcast, whether teacher, coach, counselor or professor, is nominated by our listeners.
So, tell us about the person who comes to your mind. Shoot us an email and nominate an educator at teacherslounge@niu.edu and they could be on the podcast! And please subscribe to our Teachers' Lounge newsletter right here where you can stay up to speed on the show and share stories you think we should cover!
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SHOW NOTES
Educator in this episode:
Tiffany Thurlby
Story featured in this episode:
Federal pandemic relief funding for schools is ending. How has it impacted Illinois schools?
Music: Our show's theme music is from the northern Illinois-based band "Kindoves" and their songs "Popn," "Origins" and "Quiche." You can find more of their music on their Soundcloud page. You can also listen to the episode of WNIJ's Sessions from Studio A where they were featured.
Teachers! People who know teachers! People with stories about teachers! Send us an email and be part of the show!
