Meet Ms. Carol Bush

Title/Position: Professional Development Specialist
School/Career: Center for School Improvement and Professional Development Orleans/Niagara BOCES
Grade Level(s) Taught: K-12
What is your favorite teaching moment?
My first year of teaching I had an incredibly difficult class of middle school students. They tested me every day and there were many times I thought I had made the wrong choice by becoming a teacher. Then, one day, one of my most difficult students came in with a new outfit, new sneakers, and a slick -looking haircut. He looked sharp. I commented on the new look and the awesome haircut and was astounded at what happened next… He didn't give me one bit of trouble for the entire class. In fact, when some of the other troublemakers started to act up, he made them stop. It was truly unbelievable!
It was at that moment that I realized teaching is so much more than classroom instruction… It's about relationships. By taking the time to notice what was going on in my student's life, I was able to establish a more positive relationship with him and eventually build trust. I am so grateful that I learned this lesson in my first year! It has served me very well over the years :)
Why did you become a teacher?
I became a teacher because I wanted learning to be fun. I absolutely love children and it's frustrating to see classrooms that lack the fun and creativity that kids need. Though I know it's a constant challenge, my goal is to make every lesson as exciting as possible in an attempt to engage every learner. I want kids to enjoy coming to school!
What is your role with the NFRC?
I am the Director of Membership for the NFRC. My responsibilities include maintaining the NFRC and NYSRA membership databases, responding to membership inquiries, creating and distributing the membership cards for both organizations and any other miscellaneous things that may pop up along the way…
Why do you enjoy being a member of the NFRC?
I enjoy being a member of the NFRC because the organization is made up of kind, thoughtful educators that truly represent an integrity for the profession. They work hard to provide the NFRC members with the best literacy experiences possible and the events are always timely and relevant. It's a great team to be a part of.
Tell us some fun facts about yourself.
1. I think better when I have my sneakers on.
2. I love the Hallmark Channel… especially at Christmas time!
3. I secretly wish I could flip houses! I love HGTV!
How many years have you been an NFRC Member?
11 years (I think)
School/Career: Center for School Improvement and Professional Development Orleans/Niagara BOCES
Grade Level(s) Taught: K-12
What is your favorite teaching moment?
My first year of teaching I had an incredibly difficult class of middle school students. They tested me every day and there were many times I thought I had made the wrong choice by becoming a teacher. Then, one day, one of my most difficult students came in with a new outfit, new sneakers, and a slick -looking haircut. He looked sharp. I commented on the new look and the awesome haircut and was astounded at what happened next… He didn't give me one bit of trouble for the entire class. In fact, when some of the other troublemakers started to act up, he made them stop. It was truly unbelievable!
It was at that moment that I realized teaching is so much more than classroom instruction… It's about relationships. By taking the time to notice what was going on in my student's life, I was able to establish a more positive relationship with him and eventually build trust. I am so grateful that I learned this lesson in my first year! It has served me very well over the years :)
Why did you become a teacher?
I became a teacher because I wanted learning to be fun. I absolutely love children and it's frustrating to see classrooms that lack the fun and creativity that kids need. Though I know it's a constant challenge, my goal is to make every lesson as exciting as possible in an attempt to engage every learner. I want kids to enjoy coming to school!
What is your role with the NFRC?
I am the Director of Membership for the NFRC. My responsibilities include maintaining the NFRC and NYSRA membership databases, responding to membership inquiries, creating and distributing the membership cards for both organizations and any other miscellaneous things that may pop up along the way…
Why do you enjoy being a member of the NFRC?
I enjoy being a member of the NFRC because the organization is made up of kind, thoughtful educators that truly represent an integrity for the profession. They work hard to provide the NFRC members with the best literacy experiences possible and the events are always timely and relevant. It's a great team to be a part of.
Tell us some fun facts about yourself.
1. I think better when I have my sneakers on.
2. I love the Hallmark Channel… especially at Christmas time!
3. I secretly wish I could flip houses! I love HGTV!
How many years have you been an NFRC Member?
11 years (I think)