FLORENCE, Ala. — FOX54's Top Teacher is back! The students are settling in and so are the teachers. We're going to kick the year off in Florence by spotlighting a teacher who is new to public education. This year's a first for her.
We're excited to introduce you to Briley Borden from Weeden Elementary School!
"It is my first time in public school," said Borden. "I've always loved math. I've always wanted to be a math teacher."
Borden teaches fourth grade math, and also teaches science at Weeden Elementary School.
Although she's green to teaching public schools, with a shirt to prove it, she's expecting a lot of success from students.
"I'm just looking forward to seeing the progression of growth and seeing where they came from and seeing how far we can push them and their numbers and, you know, their conceptual understanding about math and, you know, diving into science, doing some experiments," said Borden.
Borden says she's put in the time too. At one point she said she made it to school grounds at 6:30 a.m., and ended her day a little later too.
"I walked out of here at 7:30 [p.m.], so just being able to, you know, really commit to it, you know, put it first and do all that you can to make it always reflecting, you know, reflecting on what went well, what didn't went well."
So, for some people it's no surprise that she was surprised as a Top Teacher. "It's awesome to receive great news about our teachers, especially when they're new, because sometimes they don't always have that confidence that the veteran teachers have," said Principal Daphnae Hogan.
Hogan says she's setting a standard. "She's already proven herself at the beginning. She's a hard worker. The students love her. So, hoping we're off to a great start and this will continue throughout."
Borden has some tips for fellow newcomers. "Just give yourself some grace because it takes a lot of that, and be willing to stay late."
She also has a bit of hope for her students. "Just being someone that they can love on, that no, you know, I love you and I care about you. I want the best for you. So it just is really all about the kids."
Do you know of a deserving teacher? Nominate them here!
