This week's Staff Spotlight goes to Sped Teacher, Marta Hammonds!
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
I began working with children in high school. When I moved to Tuscaloosa for college, I didn't work with children for a while. I realized I missed working with children. I then changed my major to education.
2. What’s your favorite part of working with students?
My favorite part of working with students is the joy and pride a child feels when they experience success.
3. If you weren’t in education, what do you think you’d be doing?
If I weren't a teacher, I think I would be a juvenile probation officer.
4. Do you have any professional goals you’re working on this year?
The professional goal I'm currently working on is obtaining my Educational Specialist degree at the University of Alabama. I anticipate graduating in the spring of 2027. Roll Tide!
5. What’s one thing you love most about our school community?
The thing I love most about our school community is that our faculty and staff invest their lives into our students. You can always find an MVES staff member at games and performances of current and past students.
6. Is there a particular moment in the school year you look forward to each year?
Each year I look forward to the Parade of Graduates. It's rewarding to see former students and Warrior Center Mentors accomplish this milestone.
7. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?
My hidden talent is that I can make my nose look like Michael Jackson's. People would be surprised to learn that I share the same middle name as my Memaw, mother-in-law, and oldest daughter.
8. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would travel all over Europe. I want to see where my grandfathers fought in WWII and other sites and museums from that time. I also want to visit Paris while in Europe.
10. What’s a food you can never say no to?
I can never say no to eating at Niki's West. (If you haven't eaten there, you're missing out!)