Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Week: Dana Ayers
[gtxvideo vid=”kCATY6pf” playlist=”” pid=”OTSe9U1y” thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/kCATY6pf.jpg” vtitle=”EOW”]
MILAN, Tenn. — Dana Ayers has been teaching special education and resource for 25 years. She said she uses positive reinforcement to encourage her students.
“I let them know mistakes are OK and just always try to strive to do your best to be your best,” Ayers said. As a 6th grader she started working with the Special Olympics program, and that inspired her to teach. “I knew from that point on that I wanted to be a special educator.” Ayers said she understands the learning challenges her students face. “They may not be the best in academics, but they excel in other areas — art, building — so they can be successful citizens in our world.” Ayers uses interactive, group exercises to teach her classes and keep her students engaged. Her nominator said Ayers is a true treasure. “To be a good educator you have to have empathy for these students,” Ayers said. “You have to think to yourself constantly, ‘if this was my child, how would I want him or her treated.'”
Ayers now will be eligible for the statewide Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Month award. To vote for her or any of the other nominees, go to seewhoitaddsup.com. To nominate a teacher for our weekly award, email us at educator@wbbjtv.com.
