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'Teacher of the Year' Ivan Ray brings his talent to GHCBy Jehna Holder Ivan Ray, part-time English instructor on the Floyd campus, was recently named "Teacher of the Year" at Cedartown High School, where he teaches English and advises the yearbook staff.
"When the school announced that I had been given this award I was speechless at that moment, and I am never at a loss for words. It was an honor knowing my peers, some I have taught with for 30 years, thought enough of me in that way to vote for me. It was so humbling," Ray said. Ray has been teaching at GHC for 10 years. "I have enjoyed being here, love every minute. I was real apprehensive about teaching here while I was going to school, but it's a whole different experience between teaching at GHC and high school from what I expect of people and what they expect of me," said Ray. "I see that college freshmen are much more apprehensive because they are fresh out of high school and realize it is a whole new world out there�a whole new four years to start over again. Students try and write every word down that I say when really all they need to do is listen and learn how to take notes," Ray stated. Ray realized his passion for teaching in 11th grade. "I had an English teacher then that was just awesome, and it's all because of her. She instilled in me a love for writing and reading and enjoying it." He also credits part of his success to his senior English teacher and his eighth grade teacher who "pushed" him. Ray taught chorus his first year at Cedartown High School because they really needed a music major to teach the class. He has a minor in piano and has been playing the piano since the age of four. "I, at one time thought I would be a music minister for a church. I know without a doubt that the good Lord has to call you to do something like that and I didn't feel that calling, but I knew music would always be part of my life," Ray stated.
Ray's favorite memory from teaching is hearing someone say thank you for whatever he may have done to help. Then it is worth it all. "I had a student who couldn't pass the graduation test, and my goal that summer was to help him pass. We worked hard, and when he finally passed it and came to my room and brought me that test�crying and saying thank you�that was success," Ray said. Ray attended Piedmont High School in Alabama. He completed his undergraduate degree at Jacksonville State University in addition to receiving his master's degree from JSU as well. Ray also attended the University of Alabama and completed a six-year educational specialist degree, which is halfway between a master's and a doctorate. "I loved every minute of it; I could be a professional student. I want my doctorate, so I am going back. I will never say no to school," Ray said. "My greatest weakness is procrastination, and if I had to do life over again, I would have studied harder in undergraduate school and been more involved in activities. "I also believe every teacher should have a caring heart and want his or her students to enjoy as well as have fun in learning, writing and reading," Ray said. In his free time, Ray enjoys going to the University of Alabama football games. He also plays for two choirs and sings in a choir and ensemble at his church, which is a big part of his life. |
