It is Teacher Appreciation Week and we at IHTG wanted to take a moment to highlight a special dope black educator! We wanted to give teachers that inspire and encourage innovation into the classroom an opportunity to be honored. Our Teacher on purpose is the beautiful Ms. Ruth Knight.
What school do you teach at (include City & State)?
I’m currently an Assistant Principal of Elementary Science and I support 5th-grade students in 8 elementary inner-city schools, in Jacksonville, FL.
What subject do you teach?
I taught 4th grade Math and Science for three years, Science Coach for two years, Lead District Science Specialist for four years, and I’m in my second year as an AP of Science.
Why did you choose to become a teacher?
My “why” is one of my twin sons (who’s now 21). They were in 3rd grade when Jaylen was diagnosed with dyslexia. The day I informed his teacher, she told me that “it was too close to State testing and he would most likely be retained”, so there was nothing she could do. After a long talk with God and my husband (now ex), I boldly walked into my supervisor’s office on October 26, 2006, and turned in my resignation letter. Talk about stepping out on faith. My degree was not in education, but my son needed me. I was told about an Apprentice program offered by the University of Florida. I applied and was one of 18 applicants selected (out of 200+). Remember, no education degree. But GOD!! Fast forward to 2007, this was my first year in education and the rest is history. My “why” is my son and others like him. By the way, that “dyslexic child” graduated on time and was the 2017 Senior Class President.
What practices do you use in your classroom/teaching style that would be considered “Outside the Box”?
Outside of the Box teaching for me is providing my students with real-world experiences. I feel my babies deserve the same opportunities as others in affluent neighborhoods. This experience can be going to a grocery store to teach various concepts of Math or taking a field trip to the beach (which many don’t exist) to teach weathering and erosion. Teaching is not always done at a desk. It’s not only about the students, but we also have to reach the parents. Contrary to what most think, my parents want to be involved in the academic success of their child, unfortunately, there are situations that hinder this. That means 7am or 7pm conferences because many of them work two jobs or conducting home visits to assist parents with applications for magnet schools. For me, out of the box is doing what it takes and by any means necessary to ensure the success of my brown babies.
We salute you for all that you have done to go the extra mile and be a teacher of substance for our young people.
