Position: Math Teacher
School: Raleigh Christian Academy
School District: Wake County Public School System
City, State: Raleigh, NC
Paula Wall was nominated by an anonymous parent of a student.
Mrs. Wall is serving her first year at Raleigh Christian Academy as a middle school and high school math teacher. She encourages each of her students by letting them know they can do what has been set before them, and that she will do all she can to help them reach their full potential. When others say, "they can't" or "they won't," Mrs. Wall speaks in the affirmative, "yes they can" attitude. She teaches students how to prioritize and focus on completion.
"As a parent, it is refreshing to know that some teachers are truly committed to the mission of educating students," the nominator said. "It is even more refreshing to know that Mrs. Wall is making sure that if a student learns differently or struggles to comprehend, she will help them persevere. It's good when students can complete books, but it doesn't matter when they lack the comprehension. I applaud Mrs. Wall for not neglecting those who are struggling in order to pass a test. Through patient, fervent teaching and encouragement, students increase their self-esteem and desire to learn."
Mrs. Wall motivates both students and parents alike. She finds additional resources to enhance her students' learning, and always keeps parents informed. She also encourages parents and welcomes them into their children's learning process.
"We get calls, emails, and face-to-face communications," the nominator said. "She never appears to be in a rush, and shows genuine concern about my children. Mrs. Wall accepts that even though she may have taught a lesson, it does not mean that it was immediately attainable for all. Through the eyes of my children, math has become enjoyable and they seek to learn more."
Students are excited about attending her classes, and they share with other students why they love to be in her presence. Mrs. Wall is professional and has an inner beauty that leaps to her outer beauty. Even if students say they understand a concept, Mrs. Wall can read their faces and understand that fear of failure or embarrassment may be plaguing their truth. Her actions help motivate the students to live and succeed.
At the beginning of the school year, some students might assume that Mrs. Wall can be a push-over, but they immediately realize that she is not one to take advantage of. She connects with her students and sets the atmosphere for a great year. Mrs. Wall is known for her caring heart and steadfastness for the students. She does not sugar coat things with the parents or students and has a genuine love for each and every child. She is honest in everything, and if she doesn't know something or makes a mistake, she is open and apologetic. This helps students see how to live in truth.
When Raleigh Christian Academy participated in a service project, Mrs. Wall involved her students, and sent weekly encouragement to the parents. She rallied parents to join in the schools' quest to educate and provide family and community involvement. Amongst her students and other staff, she helped pack 10,000 meals to feed families in Haiti.
"As a parent, she was doing what she asked me to do and enjoying it with all of us who came to help at that event," the nominator said. "The students see her beyond the classroom, excited about learning and serving others.
Mrs. Wall is married, with three children and one international student. Her family is actively involved in her school community. Students are so glad to see her cheering for sports teams at games and school activities. Her children become a part of her classes, as she testifies to things she has overcome. Her level of attention to all students helps them to do well in all classes. She nurtures her students with the same love and tender care that she gives her children.
"Mrs. Wall is a warrior teacher angel, who assures that our children are not devoured in believing that they cannot succeed," the nominator said. "These are a few of many reasons why she is a LifeChanger in our community."