Smith County Insider’s “Educator Spotlight” series is our way of celebrating the incredible educators in Smith County who go above and beyond for their students, both inside and outside of the classroom!
Smith County Educator Amanda Hicks – 5th Grade Reading, Smith County Middle School
Today’s “Educator Spotlight” features Amanda Hicks.
Amanda teaches 5th Grade Reading at Smith County Middle School.
A Smith County native, Amanda grew up in Elmwood, attended Forks River Elementary, and graduated from Smith County High School in 2003.
This is her 11th full year of teaching.
Smith County Insider interviewed Amanda about her experiences as an educator, and this is what she had to say.
SCI: When did you realize that you wanted to be a teacher?
AH: I knew from a very early age that I wanted to be a teacher. I used to play school with my teddy bears when I was a little girl. I was the kid that got so excited when the teacher gave us her leftover worksheets or books so I could bring them home and play school.
SCI: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
AH: Anytime I find out after having a student that I made a difference in their life, whether that difference be in helping academically, emotionally, or socially. My goal is always to make a difference in a positive way.
SCI: What inspires you?
AH: My inspiration comes from everywhere. Amazing teachers from around the world and my incredible family, but mostly, my children are my inspiration- My biological children inspire me to be the type of teacher I hope they have in school, and my other children (my students) inspire me to be the educator that they deserve. Since I have amazing students, I strive to be that kind of teacher. Of course, that is often not the reality, but always the goal.
SCI: What’s the best piece of advice you have for your students?
AH: My best advice is to always be kind and be the very best version of you.
SCI: What do you like to do in your free time?
AH: In my free time, I enjoy being with my family. My husband, Chris, and I enjoy football, particularly Tennesee Volunteers. I always enjoy being with my daughters, Aubrey, Scarlett, and Emma. We enjoy every opportunity to travel as a family. I also cherish getting together with my parents, brothers, and their families, as well as spending time with my church family.
Thank you for being an incredible educator, Amanda!
Don’t miss Smith County Insider’s next “Educator Spotlight”!
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