Over 10 years ago, Amber Sharkey put on her intern badge and walked into Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy.

Since then, she has taught at schools in Henry, Jones and Taylor counties. However, fate drew her back to the Gainesville school system. 

“When I got my badge at Mundy Mill, it was like I came home,” Sharkey said. “I’ve come full circle. It’s awesome to be able to be in this school system and support these children. I wouldn’t change anything.”

She is now in her third year of teaching second grade at Mundy Mill Learning Academy.

At what moment did you realize you wanted to be a teacher?

I grew up with a wonderful support system — my family, church family and then my favorite teacher, Mrs. (Missy) Ettinger, who taught third grade. She always made class fun. We entered into a contest and were able to name the red pandas at the zoo, and she built a loft for us in class. As I got older, I started to see that some people didn’t have that support system and that person to go to. It hit me in high school. I wanted to be that person for that child who doesn’t have that support system.

Why teach second grade?

I taught Pre-K for five years and taught fifth grade. When I got hired, they said we’ve got a second grade position. I was like “Oh, I’ll hit the middle part.” I feel like there is definitely more maturity in second grade than Pre-K, but they still need direction. With fifth grade they’re more independent, but with second grade you’re starting to see their personalities come out more. I love the team here and the standard — I really have fallen in love with second grade. I hope I don’t ever have to go.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a teacher?

I feel like the biggest challenge would be making sure that a relationship has been met at the beginning of the school year. Even before open house, I make sure that the children know who I am. I get to know their dislikes and likes, what they do for fun. Once you do make that relationship with them, it’s amazing because children really do want to do their best. They just need that motivation. Another challenge would be making sure that every single child is getting what they need. There’s a lot of different levels in a classroom. When I’m doing my lesson planning, I’m going through every part to make sure each child is getting what they need. 

What do you enjoy most about working at your school?

When you come in and sign in, there’s already this warmth from the front office people. When you walk down the hallway, everyone is stopping and saying, “Good morning.” That’s just the way a day should start, just with a smile. Everyone here I call a family, and I love that. I’m just so blessed. Every time an intern comes in, I tell them, “You have hit the gold at Mundy Mill because we all care about each other here.” This school is filled with the most amazing teachers. I’ve worked at a lot of different schools. There’s an energy here. I’m encouraged every day when I’m seeing someone else doing an activity. Also, these kids — the first day they’re here with me they become my kids. I want to be the teacher that I would want my own child to have. 

What have you learned about yourself through your time as a teacher?

I’ve learned that I always push myself to do better. I’ll look at a lesson and say, “How can I make this better next time?” Also, I’m always looking ahead. I like to reflect on what has happened and see what I can do better. That’s one of the lessons I’ve quickly learned in my first year. When I first started working here and something wouldn’t go well, I would dwell on it. I would wonder, “Why am I not connecting with this student?” I learned very quickly that every child is different and they’re going to tick at different times. That’s why building those individual relationships is important. 

What advice would you give to new teachers?

Welcome to the best time of your life. You’ve walked into a theater. Your mood sets the tone. If I come in and I’m really down and sad, the kids are going to pick up on it. My biggest thing is, make sure that you always show positivity and gain those relationships. Learn to let things roll off, and focus on the kids. Get to know your kids and you’ll be able to reach them at the level they’re at. Just buckle up because you’re going to have a nice ride. This is the best career. 

Which moments make all of your efforts as a teacher worth it?

When you get little personalized notes. Just yesterday they had their morning journals that they respond to. I had a child who said, “I love even though sometimes when things don’t work out at home, I can come here and Ms. Sharkey is there with a hug.” It’s knowing that you’ve made an impression and you’re that person for that kid. That was my goal when I became a teacher. A lot of these kids have a lot going on, and that’s what makes it all good. And when they can solve a two-digit problem with two different strategies that we’ve talked about, I’m like, “Yes, raise the roof!” Just having them appreciate you and you appreciate them, it’s great. We’re just one big family. I love it.