Full of gratitude: OBE third grade teacher is honored to represent her school

Ormond Beach Observer
Neighbors

When it came to choosing a profession, Candace Haynes didn't have to look very far to find a role model.

Her mother was an educator herself, an amazing one at that, said Haynes, and it was through watching her at work that she was inspired to follow in her footsteps.

"I saw the way her students’ loved her and the way she made learning come to life," Haynes said. "I wanted that to happen in my own classroom."

Haynes, who is Ormond Beach Elementary's Teacher of the Year, is now in her 11th year of teaching. The nomination makes her feel privileged, and the third grade teacher said she's proud to be a part of OBE.

"It is an honor to be selected as Ormond Beach Elementary’s Teacher of the Year," she said. "It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that my peers think so highly of me, my teaching and dedication to the profession. My take away is gratitude."

One interesting fact about her years with OBE is that she's taught many of the same kids over the years. She began teaching kindergarten at the school, and was later moved to first and second grade teaching positions. Haynes said her favorite thing about teaching is building relationships with her students and "empowering them to be accountable learners and good human beings."

"One piece of wisdom I would share with my students would be: You can have a wonderful and meaningful life if you are kind and honest, work hard, have determination, put forth effort and believe in yourself." Haynes said.

Teaching is both a rewarding and difficult profession to be in, she said, and it isn't commonly recognized as such.

"I am beyond grateful and excited to represent Ormond Beach Elementary School," Haynes said. "We have so many educators on our campus with an abundance of knowledge and years of experience."