Ruth Deaton's Influence On Education

I sat down with Elisabeth Deaton today in the table section of a movie theater as that was the only time and place we could agree on. We only able to speak briefly, because of a prior engagement on her part. Nevertheless, the interview was quite informative and helpful. I asked her first about her education, Deaton received her undergraduate degree in history at The College of William and Mary, in 2000. Deaton wanted to become a history professor at that point in time. At the College of William and Mary she saw how her life would be, had she taken that path and decided against becoming a professor. After trying out a few other jobs, Deaton went back to school for her masters in liberal arts. At St. Johns College she learned quite a lot about
teaching from her professors, which become one of the many reasons she became an elementary school teacher. Deaton then went on to volunteer at elementary schools to see if the that was the path she wanted to take.
After she figured out she wanted to teach elementary school she went back to college for her masters in education, a fourteen-month degree. Deaton financed her many years of university by working and living at home to save money, as well as scholarships. Deaton went on to say that any kind of small and personal classes were her most enjoyable. She very much disliked large lecture classes, Econ 150 was an example she used. I finally moved on to asking what inspired her to become a teacher. Deaton’s father is a college professor while her mother is a special education teacher, she said that it was always assumed she would become a teacher. However, it did take her quite a bit of time to come to the same conclusion. I believe it was a mixture of many influences and circumstances. Deaton holds a Post Grad professional license pre-k to general education and a common core vocal music license. I asked her what kind of problems she faced at a student teacher she replied that learning how to control a classroom was the most difficult part. We moved on to present day, Deaton’s favorite things about her job are the many possibilities she can take to make a difference in the students
life. The thing Deaton likes least about her job is that every mistake she makes is public, every little thing is under a spotlight. Deaton teaches 5th grade at Stratford Landing Elementary School in Fairfax County. As Fairfax County has very high standards for it’s teachers, Deaton tries to stay relevant in many teaching methods. This is possible through staff development classes and her subscriptions to teaching journals. Deaton believes that finding the real purpose of schooling is the most important issue in education. Are we as a society, teaching students for their future or only how to ace a test? Continuing with that idea, the United States cannot earn the same scores as other countries while our school days are shorter. I asked her for advice for myself and others looking to become teachers. Deaton replied that I should get as much experience in the “field” and with other teachers, so I have more of an idea of what the job would be like. She also said to not underestimate the job, teaching is hard, it is also, however, very rewarding. The interview was very informative and helpful as I look toward the future.