Educator of the Week: Javier McDonald

DENMARK, Tenn. — It’s time now to recognize our Educator of the Week, brought to you by the Tennessee Education Lottery.

Javier McDonald is an assistant special education teacher at Denmark Elementary School. He shared what made him decide to pursue a career in education.

“I got into education last year on December fourth of 2024. I just feel like that was my passion. I came from corporate America dealing with Wingstop. I decided to do a career change, and I got here at Denmark Elementary under the leadership of Principal Shannon Davis, and she gave me my first round, my first chance,” McDonald said.

McDonald tells us what his plans are moving forward.

“I’m currently obtaining a Master’s of Arts of Teaching of Special Education from Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee. As of right now, my certification is leading towards special education. I also plan to obtain my physical education and later on obtain my EDS and get into my supervision and educational leadership to become a school administrator.”

McDonald shares his favorite part of teaching.

“My favorite part of teaching is when a child… I know that a child is struggling, and it finally kicks in and they’re starting to retain the information, and it’s actually starting to stick with them, and they’re learning the strategies.”

McDonald ends by sharing how even a teacher can learn valuable lessons in a class room.

“No matter how young, how old, you’re never too old or young to learn. Kids can teach you a lot of things, and as much as you can teach them. We have to be able to continue to be kind, compassionate, caring, loving, patient with one another. When all that falls in, the education comes right in after that.”

McDonald is now eligible for the Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Month award.

To vote for him or any other nominees, go to the Tennessee Education Lottery website.

To nominate an educator for our Educator of the Week award, email us at educator@wbbjtv.com.