Brittany Woolley, 38

Occupation: Educator in English Language Arts at Eustis Middle School

What I do: I teach writing and reading comprehension skills to young 6th graders. 

MY journey: I was a banker most of my adult years, but I always had a dream of teaching. When I became a single mom at 30, I went back to school. Now, I’m in my second year of teaching and I couldn’t be happier! My youngest son is even in one of my classes and I was nominated Rookie of the Year finalist!

Why teaching is my passion: All my life I have felt a calling to teach. Every day I go to work and feel so blessed to have the opportunity to live my dream. I’m passionate about engaging a love of reading and writing to my students.

Notable achievement: To see my students grow is a great achievement. I was fortunate to work with ESE and EBD students last year in a self-contained classroom. 

Words of Wisdom: My advice to the younger generation, especially women, is to keep going. If your dream is to earn a college degree, then do it. Even if it is just one class at a time… don’t stop. 

Outside the classroom: My family and I are huge Disney nerds! I’m also a part-time Zumba instructor, so I always try to learn new dances to bring to my students at the gym in Clermont. 

Life After 40: I would love to get more involved in the North Lake community area to better serve my students’ families and I’d also travel more with my own family.