Haley knew teaching was the job for her since she was a youngster
Stacey Haley is in her 25th year of teaching in the Waynedale Local School District. She is a literacy coach at Waynedale Elementary.
When Stacey Haley was in first grade, she had a teacher who forever changed her life’s outlook.
“My first grade teacher Mrs. Rhoads was my inspiration (to become a teacher),” said Haley, a literacy coach at Waynedale Elementary. “She made teaching seem so fun. I knew it was the job for me. I never changed my mind after that.”
Haley didn’t realize how many “amazing” people she would meet through her profession when she began her career.
“I am so lucky to work with great colleagues and students,” she said. “I have made a lot of friends in this profession. It makes my job a delight.”
Haley’s favorite teaching memory stems from when one of her students told her she wanted to become a writer because of Haley’s writing class.
“(The student) proceeded to tell me she wanted to write books for children that didn’t have any,” Haley said. “It brought tears to my eyes.”
The most rewarding part of her job is helping others.
“In my current role, I have the privilege of working with students and teachers,” Haley said. “It is so exciting to find resources and support teachers with their needs and also work with students and their needs.”
Reaching all students is the most challenging part of her job.
“Sometimes, no matter what you do, there are students who just don’t understand,” Haley said. “It makes you feel helpless. You have to just keep trying. That can be challenging. The thrill is when they finally understand the concept.”
As a student, Haley participated in FTA, NHS, Spanish Club and softball and was a class officer.
Haley enjoys watching her children play sports, shopping and reading when she’s not teaching. She also likes to travel in the summer.
“Teacher Spotlight” is a feature on a local teacher.