Featured Teacher: Julie Griffis

Julie Griffis was born and raised in Gainesville, Florida. She went to college at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville and graduated with her degree in Elementary Education. She and her husband have been married for 18 years and have 2 daughters who are 10 and 13 years old. They also have two cute guinea pigs.

Where do you teach?

Talbot Elementary

What grade do you teach?

First Grade

How long have you been a teacher?

10 Years

What subject do you teach?

All Subjects

Why were you inspired to teach?

I didn’t know I wanted to be a teacher until my 2nd year of college. When I was a child, I told everyone I wanted to be a waitress. In high school and college, I was interested in the health field. Later in college, I decided to go down the teaching route. I am so glad I took that leap. I honestly feel like this is what I was meant to do. Even on the really tough days, I still love what I do.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

My favorite part of the school day is Morning Meeting. This is a special time where we come together on the carpet at the start of the school day. It’s a safe space where we feel comfortable to share. We talk about our goals, dreams, concerns, exciting news and our favorite things. It creates that classroom family environment, and I look forward to it everyday!

Do you have a favorite assignment/ project that you typically assign your students?

It would have to be the Turkey Disguise Project. I read a book called “Turkey Trouble” in November. It’s one of my favorite books. It is about a turkey who does not want to get eaten on Thanksgiving. So, he dresses up like different animals that won’t get eaten. At home, the students have to disguise their turkey with materials from their house. They share them with the class. The students are so creative! Some examples are: a flamingo, Elsa and Iron Man with eyes that light up.

How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?

I like to wind down by taking a nice, relaxing bath.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

I enjoy exploring new places, running, reading, playing board games, spending time with my family and friends, and going to Gator events.

There is never a dull moment in First Grade! We like laughing together when we dance or play silly games.

If you were a superhero, who would you be?

Katniss Everdeen. I know she is not the traditional superhero. I loved reading Hunger Games when I was younger. I liked how she was brave, gave hope to people and overcame adversity. I feel I am strong like her and can handle a lot of difficult things thrown my way.

What is your favorite book?

I love reading funny books to the class to make them laugh. One book they like is “The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors.” At the end of the school year, all of the first grade classes get together to have a rock, paper, scissors battle. For my own personal reading, I make goals for myself to read so many books every year. My favorites are fiction. Two that come to mind are “Redeeming Love” and “The Nightingale.”

What is your favorite thing about fall?

Everything! It is my favorite season. I love the energy that is all around, fall leaves, pumpkin patches, football, Halloween, Thanksgiving and the weather is nice!

Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for his students? An administrator who is truly devoted to making her school a better place? Giggle Magazine wants to know!

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