An Interview with Nominee Teacher of the Year, Barbara Hallums
EB: Where do you currently teach?
BH: Lebanon High School …where I teach several courses.
EB: What are the courses you are involved in?
BH: Honors Algebra II, ACT Prep, Discrete Math.
EB: How long have you taught teens?
BH: 21 years.
EB: Why did you originally decide to go into the teaching profession?
BH: I love numbers and I’m a people person who enjoys working with young people. I graduated with an Accounting degree from Belmont University, and after doing accounting for several years, decided to go into education. I received my Math and Education degrees from Cumberland University.
EB: Why did you choose to teach secondary instead of elementary grades?
BH: I always knew I liked to work with the older students, who could understand my expectations. I communicate best with the older students.
EB: What do you most enjoy about teaching?
BH: I love the interaction; seeing the students grow and develop into young people who can appreciate your desire for their success in life. I also LOVE all the technology in my classroom because students relate to it–we all learn.
EB: You coached girls’ basketball for several years.
BH:Yes, I coached for 13 years.
EB: What basketball position did you formerly play?
BH: I played guard in high school because we played 6 on 6. In college at Belmont, I had the position of point guard.
EB: What teachers, from your past, made the most positive influence on your life and in what way?
BH: Pat Climer, Sue Comer, and Grace Pack …to name just a few. I had a wonderful academic experience in school.
EB: What are some of your goals after retirement?
BH: To enjoy family, grandbabies, travel, and to continue running and working out.
EB: What advice can you give to parents regarding “making it through the often challenging teen years?”
BH: Listen to your children and know their friends.
EB: It’s almost Mother’s Day…..what is the best lesson your mother taught you?
BH: To never stop learning.