A Third-Grade Math, Science Teacher With a Unique Approach
Meet the Third-Grade Teacher With a Real-World Approach to Instructing Students
Ahead of the 2024 school year, PS's The Educators is spotlighting 24 public school teachers around the country who are making a difference.
Shelby Lattimore is a third-grade math and science teacher at Renaissance West STEAM Academy in Charlotte, NC. She recently went viral for her unique approach to motivating her students to attend class and get excited about learning: by creating a class economy that includes charging "rent," assigning jobs, and giving out "paychecks." Keep reading to get to know her.
What inspired you to be a teacher?
I had an amazing teacher in high school who helped me find my passion in education and made me feel like teaching was my calling.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
The relationships with my students is the most rewarding part of my job. I love the process of earning their trust and becoming a trusted adult in their lives. The relationships with my students are so strong they last even when they are no longer in my classroom.
What's your go-to teaching uniform?
I love any outfit that is one piece of clothing! A romper, dress, overalls, etc. It makes the morning so much easier.
What do you always make time for because it makes you feel good?
The gym is a nonnegotiable for me every day after school. It is a great time for me to unplug from work life and take time for myself. It also always benefits me to stay in good health so I can keep up with my students.
What's your morning routine on a school day?
In the morning, I first take care of my personal hygiene: teeth, face, and hair. Then I pack my abundance of clothes because I usually have basketball practice and/or the gym after school. Then I make breakfast — my favorite is breakfast potatoes, three eggs, and turkey bacon. While I eat, I may edit a video for social media. Then I am out the door!
What's your go-to feel-good music?
I am an old-school R&B type of girl. If I'm playing Whitney Houston at any moment of the day, my students know it is going to be a good day!
What's your favorite teaching memory?
My favorite teaching memories are ones that are connected to hearing my students pass on what I have taught them to their younger siblings. It shows me that what I'm teaching, academically or in life, is making an impact to not just the student but the entire household.
Yerin Kim is the features editor at PS, where she helps shape the vision for special features and packages across the network. A graduate of Syracuse University's Newhouse School, she has over five years of experience in the pop culture and women's lifestyle spaces. She's passionate about spreading cultural sensitivity through the lenses of lifestyle, entertainment, and style.
