We sat down for a brief Q&A with fifth grade teacher Amy Tayes. The passion and care she brings to her classroom every day is inspiring. 

How did your career lead you to CPA, teaching fifth grade?
I started my undergraduate degree in business management and quickly realized my Dad was right…teaching was a career choice that would bring so much fulfillment. I finished my undergraduate degree in elementary education and went on to complete my masters degree in education. Since 1992, I have had the opportunity to teach in 10 different schools across five different states, and be a part of 16 different teams. Each opportunity has given me a different perspective. God has created all of us in unique ways, and He has inspired me to steward my students by their own unique gifts.

CPA is a gift to me! I am honored to serve in the capacity of fifth grade teacher to some pretty amazing kids. 

What is unique about fifth grade and why do you love it?
Fifth graders are happy! They are developing a sense of right and wrong, and they desire things to be fair. I love the fact that they are sponges of learning and love to ask questions, leading to some pretty great discussions.  They are very social and love to be a part of a team. They care about each other and their teacher. 

What are some intentional things that you do every single day with your students?
We are a team in my classroom. My passion and focus is on team building. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 it says to “build each other up”, and those words are the foundation of my classroom. Students are welcomed each day into a safe environment where they are encouraged to be themselves, ask questions, and use self-discipline. Some activities that foster a team culture are “Thankful Thursday” where each student practices giving another student a compliment and also receives a compliment. The kids also enjoy secret pals every week. Something special they do—they play kickball together as a class during recess like a true team. I love that! 

What is your favorite subject matter and why? 
I have always loved to teach writing and reading. I believe they are one in the same, and it is so much fun to take a book and teach students reading strategies. I am always sharing famous authors with students, pointing out technique, and talking about how to apply those tools in our own writing. I always tell my students that if they are stuck in their writing, to look in a book.  

Do you have a teacher from your own upbringing who stands out as influential?
My biggest role models are my parents. Although, I have had some great teachers throughout my life, especially in college. My parents stand out as the ones who have spurred me on and have always assured me that I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to. They have always taught me that there is no limit to what God can do. They have impressed upon me that faith, diligence, and reward will come to those that trust in God. They have instilled the words of Hebrews 11:6 at a very young age, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” I hold tightly to this verse every day!

What deeper learning objectives do you believe to be essential for a student heading into sixth grade? 
Students need to be prepared for critical thinking. We often talk about metacognition in my classes, which means “thinking about thinking“ —stretching the brain to think beyond what is initially presented. Using inferencing skills, visualization, connections, and questioning promotes better comprehension.

Students are learning that they can study authors and how these authors write can be carried over into their own writing. My goal is for all students to know that God has given them unique gifts. I always affirm question-asking, as questions provide an entryway for substantial learning. One of my favorite sayings is “God has created YOU to do great things for Him … what an opportunity to glorify God!” 

How has teaching at CPA empowered you as an educator? 
My passion stays the same: academics through a biblical lens, learning to know ourselves as God sees us, and recognizing the unique gifts He has given us to serve Him. 

I love teaching at CPA, and I remind myself quite often that “I get to teach here!”

Describe one of your favorite teaching moments from the 2020-21 school year? 
Zoom calls, recording lessons, building community while keeping a safe distance, and not forgetting that God walks before us in all things! We are all pioneering a path that has many unknowns, but our God is never changing. I choose to trust and take each day as a new opportunity to grow, and to be thankful for what I do have.  

After a long day, what do you do to unwind?
I love to hang out with my family, exercise, travel, and go on adventures. I especially love the beach and biking. I also enjoy cooking, exploring new recipes, and of course, shopping!

What is your favorite month of the academic year and why? 
I really like October. Things start to settle in as I’m getting to know the kids better, and we are all becoming closer as a class. I also get the opportunity to have parent-teacher conferences which allows me to get to know parents better and talk about ways that I can better support and encourage students. Making connections with students and families is the best part of my job!