“I have always loved children and have always been interested in the science behind how children learn. It feels like a calling to me,” said our Teacher of the Month Jasmine Sanders. “When I think back on some of the most influential people in my life it has always been teachers. My 3rd grade teacher instilled a confidence in me when she told me that I was a great writer. My 5th grade teacher called me creative. My theatre teacher in 9th grade said I was talented. I believed them all and that served as great motivation for the rest of my life. I wanted to be that person for children who may not receive the affirmation in their home lives.”
Mrs. Sanders just finished her first year teaching first grade at Daphne Elementary School. She originally graduated college with a BS in Business Management from the University of Alabama, but in 2018 felt called to return back to school to pursue her passion for education. She ended up choosing a completely online program offered by Judson College because she was working a full time job with two children at home. It was there at Judson she earned her BS in Elementary Education.
“As a first year teacher, I questioned daily if I was enough. I felt like I failed every day, It was a very emotional moment to know that parents recognized my constant effort and, even more, how much I love my students,” Mrs. Sanders said upon finding out she was selected for the July Teacher of the Month Award.
Building authentic relationships with her students is one way Mrs. Sanders works to keep them motivated throughout the year. While building those relationships, her goal is not to be just another adult telling them what to do all day, but rather she strives to be someone they trust. A teacher that they know believes in them and is rooting for their successes! She truly hopes that each of her students leave her classroom knowing they are loved and they have someone who believes in them!
“I just love the idea of planting seeds. I may not see the fruit right away, but I want them to always remember how I made them feel,” said Mrs. Sanders.
Jasmine Sanders is married to Blake and they have three children: Kohen, Luca, and Nola, plus a “surprise” baby on the way! The Sanders love attending 3Circle Church in Fairhope, watching Alabama football and spending weekends at the beach.
