Fernandina Teacher of the Week

FERNANDINA BEACH, FL -- A teacher at Emma Love Hardee Elementary is very theatrical and loves to perform. Her students are performing well too in class and on stage.

There's never a dull moment in Kathy Hill's 4th grade class from learning the meaning of a new word, to celebrating a student's birthday; and there's also the plays the students write and perform for their parents.

"It's fun. We get to act out and our parents get to see it," said 4th Grader Shannon Weston.

Some years, the students preform a Christmas play, other years a clown play, but there is always a special Mother's Day program. "Having children write a play is a unique experience because it's a good writing experience. It makes learning fun," said Hill.

It's also a favorite among parents and could be part of the reason so many parents hope Mrs. Hill will teach their children in 4th grade.

"Every year, Mrs. Hill is easily the most requested teacher in our school and there are some parents from early on, when their kids are young, want Mrs. Hill to be their kid's teacher in 4th grade," said Principal Eric Larsen.

The principal nominated Hill for Teacher of the Week because he said she has a strong work ethic, she loves the children, and they love her.

"She's one of the best teachers I ever had," said 4th grader Carson Thomas.

Another student adds, "She rocks. Mrs. Hill is fun."

She's fun. She's animated and she's a teacher her students and their parents will never forget. "She loves teaching and she loves children and she's really good at it. She's a National Board Certified teacher. She's really good at it and the kids benefit from her instruction," said Larsen.

Hill's students all have fun in her class, but as a class they all score high on the FCAT.

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