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PHOTO BY CHRIS MECHE
Mrs. Teshauna Turk, 3rd Grade Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies GT teacher at Silsbee Elementary, was recently named the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year.
Turk, a Silsbee graduate, attended Angelina College for 2 years before transferring to Lamar University. She graduated from Lamar with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies.
After teaching at Spurger for one year, she began working for Silsbee ISD where she has taught for 19 years. In fact, she’s been teaching 3rd grade for her entire time at Silsbee Elementary. Also, she’s been teaching with her teaching partner, Mrs. Powell, during this entire time, as well.
“I’m as good as I am because of her,” stated Turk in regards to Powell.
When asked if she knew she was being named Teacher of the Year, Turk didn’t even know that she was receiving the honor.
“I heard them start listing things about this teacher, and, then, I realized they were talking about me,” she said.
As for her accomplishments, Silsbee Elementary Principal Dr. Gerald Chandler mentioned Turk’s exemplifying the districts vision to “ensure our students are equipped with the values to envision a better world.” In fulfilling this vision, Turk took part in the district’s Teacher Incentive Allotment in which she more than earned the distinction as a Master Teacher.
Furthermore, Turk takes part in mentoring student teachers and first year teachers along with setting up Professional Learning Committee meetings with her fellow third grade teachers that enables teachers to collaborate and growth their skillset, which enhances learning for students in the classroom.
Chandler went on to praise Turk’s dedication to her students in the midst of the COVID pandemic, which created difficulties for both teachers and students alike. According to Chandler, Turk remains dedicated to closing the learning gaps that the pandemic created.
Finally, Turk also received a grant from the Silsbee Education Foundation, for which she wrote the grant proposal herself. She said she used the money to purchase seating that is appropriate for GT students, demonstrating her knowing the needs of her students.
“Flexible seating provides my students with opportunities to collaborate. This encourages oral communication,” explained Turk.
Turk’s love for teaching is evident.
“Every day is exciting. It’s not a job. This is my place,” she said.
In regards to be named Teacher of the Year, Turk said, “It’s great to have community backing.”
Mrs.Teshauna Turk, Silsbee Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year, in her room displaying a door decorated with positive statements that reinforce learning.