Profile: Anna Swanson

Name: Anna Swanson

Age: 27

Position: Sixth grade social studies teacher at Valley View Intermediate School.

Education: Graduated from Valley View in 2005. Earned a bachelor's degree from Ohio State in 2009 (human development and family science) and master's degree from OSU in 2010 (middle childhood education).

Where do you live? Germantown.

How long have you taught at Valley View? This is my first year.

What's your favorite thing about the community? It is quintessential "small town" at its finest. Everyone supports one another and is there for you in times of success, as well as sorrow. My mom unfortunately passed away last year, and this community was so incredibly supportive to my family during that difficult time.

Describe your teaching philosophy in 10 words or less: Effective educators need collaboration between teachers, students, parents, and the entire learning community.

What one word best describes you? Energetic

What's your greatest achievement as a teacher so far: Surviving the first day.

What's your favorite thing about your job? I love learning, and when I am able to get students excited about it, as well, that is the ultimate feeling being a teacher.

What are your favorite hobbies? I love going to sporting events to cheer on my favorite teams (the Bengals, Buckeyes, Reds, and VV Spartans, of course!), reading, shopping, and spending time with my family and friends.

What's your favorite movie or TV show? I'm a sucker for reality TV! If it's a reality show, I'm sure I'll be watching!

Who would you most like to meet? I'd actually love to meet my future self so that she can tell me to relax and understand that everything will be okay during this nerve-wracking, and at times overwhelming, first year of teaching.

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