Corinne Curtis of Barnett Elementary is a first-year teacher at Barnett Elementary in Payson, teaching second grade. Despite this being her first year, Curtis has demonstrated remarkable skill, dedication and heart in her classroom.
From the very beginning, she has shown a natural ability to connect with her students and create an environment where every child feels valued and supported. Building strong relationships has been one of her greatest strengths. She takes the time to learn about each student—their interests, their challenges, and their unique strengths—and uses that knowledge to foster trust and respect. Because of these genuine connections, her students are motivated to work hard, take risks and achieve their best. They know their teacher believes in them, and that confidence shines through in the way they participate and grow academically and socially.
Another key to her success has been her consistent use of the “Big 8” instructional strategies. Whether it’s setting clear learning expectations, providing time limits and signals, using proximity, or offering verbal or visual prompts, she demonstrates a thorough understanding of how students learn best. Her lessons are not only well-structured, but also engaging and purposeful. She uses strategies like guided practice, collaborative learning, and opportunities for reflection to help students master new content. These practices ensure that her classroom is not just a place where information is delivered, but where learning is active, interactive, and meaningful. Her commitment to these high-leverage strategies sets a strong foundation for student success.
Equally important, Curtis has created an inviting and safe classroom environment that allows students to thrive. She establishes clear expectations and routines that provide structure, while also encouraging creativity, collaboration and curiosity. Her students know that their ideas will be heard and respected, which builds a culture of inclusivity and belonging. The moment you step inside her classroom, there is a warmth that is evident as you observe students being engaged, respectful, and clearly enjoy being there.
For many children, school feels like a second home because of the sense of community she has worked so hard to create.
Preparation has also been a cornerstone of her success. Each day, she arrives with thoughtful lesson plans, organized materials, and a clear vision of what she wants her students to achieve. Her preparation allows her to use instructional time effectively and to adapt as needed to meet the needs of her students. This readiness also demonstrates her professionalism and commitment to her role. She understands that being prepared is one of the best ways to show respect for her students’ time and learning, and she takes that responsibility seriously.
Overall, Curtis has exceeded expectations for a first-year teacher. She brings together strong relationship-building skills, effective use of the Big 8 strategies, a safe and welcoming environment, and daily preparation to create a classroom where students feel supported and inspired to learn. Her passion for teaching and her dedication to her students are evident in everything she does. Without question, she has made an exceptional start to her career, and she is on the path to becoming a truly outstanding educator who will have a lasting impact on her students for years to come.
