The Fourth Grade Experience

I am from Ocracoke and began my journey into education while in high school as an assistant for the after school program, "Big Kids Club." In 2019, I completed the East Carolina University Partnership East Program. The completion of this program earned me a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in reading.

This will be my third year as a classroom teacher, however, I have been working with children ever since high school as an afterschool tutor, substitute teacher, coaching basketball,

 leading cub scouts, teaching Sunday school, and teaching English Learners On-Line as well as raising my own two children who are now 15 and 9 years of age.

My philosophy of education revolves around providing a safe and nurturing environment where the uniqueness of students can shine and students are able to feel comfortable in asking questions as well as making mistakes to aid them in their learning as well as grow their confidence. 

My name is Taylor Phelps and I am so excited to join the Tiller community in 4th grade English Language Arts and Social Studies. I am a Meredith College graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology along with a K-6 North Carolina Licensure and a K-6 Virginia Licensure. I am so beyond excited to possibly extend my journey of building a community in my classroom at Tiller School. 

I am from the Roanoke Rapids area in North Carolina. I have just fallen in love with the charm that Carteret County has to offer. The community that has been established in the area is exactly what I am looking to be a part of. The mission statement "Tiller School is dedicated to fostering creativity, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning through arts integration, family engagement, and a responsive academic and social curriculum" upholds my educational philosophy.  

I feel that these last few years have been a true example of the importance of being adaptable and teaching students the life skills needed to become effective contributors to society. With all the students have experienced this year, I have really had a newfound appreciation for the student's social-emotional health and am excited to implement Responsive Classroom. Students learn best when they are in a nurturing environment. It is my goal to build a community, not just within my classroom but within the school as a whole.