We are continuing our rebooted Staff Spotlight series of blog posts to introduce the community to more of our staff. This is Tammaria Henry's third year as a valued part of Haycock Elementary.

How many years have you been a teacher?

This is my tenth year teaching. I've also been a school counselor and an art teacher.

What do you love about Haycock?

Since the day I started at Haycock, it has been nothing but a welcoming and collaborative environment. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise with colleagues grade-level and staff meetings. Haycock as a community is one of the best--from the students to the staff. At this point in my years teaching here, I can truly say I am blessed.  

What makes you smile or brings you calm?

What makes me smile is the compassion of the students and the way they honor my support in the classroom. 

What brings me calm is the willingness of my coworkers. The way we engage in professional conversations about supportive resources opens my eyes to how we are all still learning every single day. I make a point to reach out whenever possible, and I am always open to sharing and supporting my team when they are willing to share and support me as well. 

What books are you currently reading?

I am re-reading Teach(ing) Like a Champion. It is always a good read, especially right before testing season. I'm also re-reading The 48 Laws of Power, always one of my favorites. 

What other media entertains you?

I love all types of music, but at the moment, I am listening to John Coltrane and Nina Simone. Both of them inspire me to be creative and innovative. 

What fills your time outside of school?

I love planting (collecting plants), painting, making/upcycling clothes, and candle making. 

Our students love "fun facts" about people and topics. What's a fun fact about you?

My first name (TA-marry-yah) means Tree of Wisdom in Swahili, and I am constantly growing to understand what that means every day.