Clarissa R. Porterfield

Head Start Teacher











Hello Fellow  Blogger!                                

Who would have known that a dramatic life changing experience would direct me in the path of teaching!  I always loved working with children and being a mentor to those around me. Even though my passion for working with children was strong, it always seen as if there was something standing in my way. You always here the saying “Things happen for a reason” but it never affects you until it’s starring you in the face. When I thought I was headed down the right career path as if God made that road end and then stated me on a different path. With God’s guidance I was able to rid my life of the negativity that was holding me back from my teaching career.

Prior to leaving off to college, I spent most of my childhood years in Memphis, TN. I had very strong upbringing by parents that believed in the importance of education. My mother, is a woman that strongly believes there‘s always something to learn. There I was always involved in educational programs, social events such as Girl Scouts and church functions. With this events it helped build my character.

During my child years like most kids I played school with my peers. We would alternate turns in the leadership roles. We would gather up our dolls and begin reading to them. During these playful exercises we would discover that hands on experiences helped us study for the test. Even though I always enjoying the role of the teacher, I never thought I would pursue a career in teaching. 

During my teenage years I worked at a community center during the summer working as a youth counselor. This job was something that I looked forward to every year. I was able to interact with children ranging from ages three to thirteen.  I had the opportunity to serve as a mentor and a friend. This was my first experience in the teaching field, and allowed me to view my tolerance level with children.

The path I chosen to travel down I feel it will have a major impact on someone’s life. While attending University of Tennessee at Martin, I felt that it open my eyes to truly see the importance of an education. I was also understood that in order to be successful you must have an excitement for what you are doing. If you that excitement it will really make a difference in your endeavors. The impact that my professors had in my life encourage me to pursue teaching. While obtaining my Bachelor Administration degree I wanted to change my major in Management Information System several times, but I kept pushing it off.

Once I graduated, I still was undecided if I was ready to enter corporate America or go back to school. After a couple years of trying the corporate life I was yet to find happiness. I enjoyed when the opportunity presented itself to teach a new task to someone.

 So when my road came to an end in the corporate world. I decide to follow my dreams in pursuing to become a knowledgeable teacher.  I want to become a teacher of business to prepare them for this society.  My commitment and the passion that I have for teaching will show in me everyday. There were many steps that I took to get where I am today but I am very Thankful that I do get the opportunity to say that teaching is apart of me.  

So how did you know that teaching is apart of you?