Meet the CCSD Teacher: Emily Wilcox of Holly Springs ES STEM Academy!

We’re proud of our CCSD family’s dedicated teachers … and every week, you’ll get to know one of them better through a Q&A posted here. #CCSDfam

Emily Wilcox 
Holly Springs ES STEM Academy  
Fourth-grade math and science teacher 

What’s the most innovative idea that you’ve tried in your classroom? 
When I taught second grade, I did a full classroom transformation by turning my room into a diner.  I tied in all subject areas and my students mastered standards by having a blast!  As an example, I tied in math (three-digit addition and subtraction) by having students order and add up food.  We made root beer floats to touch on solids, liquids and gases in science.

Who is the best teacher you ever had and what made him or her special?
The best teacher I’ve ever had was my third-grade teacher, Mrs. McClintock.  I loved going to school because she made me feel special and seen every single day.

What can parents do to prepare their children for learning?
Parents can help prepare their children for learning in many different ways.  First, it is important to have daily routines in place, which include healthy eating and sleeping habits.  Parents should demonstrate a positive attitude about education to their children and speak about daily school activities.  Parents should also promote literacy at home by reading to their child daily and promote reading by oneself. 

What are the obstacles to getting all kids to achieve?
One major obstacle teachers face when trying to help all of their students achieve is being able to reach the different learning styles and needs of each student.  To reach every student, teachers must take the time to form meaningful relationships with each student to better understand how they learn and what will help them achieve.  Another obstacle that gets in the way of student achievement is motivation.  By helping students set goals and take ownership of their learning, they have a better chance of being motivated to do well. 
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