Avery Adams believes empathy and understanding are the keys to impactful teaching. Adams teaches English as a Second Language classes through the Parkway School District at Clayton High School and has nearly two decades of experience teaching in the U.S. and abroad, including Mexico and Ecuador. She often draws inspiration from students learning English while building their lives in a new country.
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Organization: Parkway School District ESL Classes
Title: ESL Teacher
Age: 39
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Education: Master’s degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from Webster University
Interests / Hobbies: I enjoy reading, gaming, and traveling. Also, watching TV with my cat, Layana.
What motivated you to get involved in this work/community/activity? I have been teaching English in the United States and abroad for almost 20 years. I have lived and taught English in Mexico and Ecuador. I am motivated by seeing my students reach their language goals and be able to use English in their daily lives.
What values or principles guide how you show up in this role/community? As a teacher, I value empathy and understanding.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect? I most enjoy talking to my students and getting to know them better. They are usually from many different countries and cultures all over the world, and I learn a lot from them.
Can you share an insight about this role that most people don’t know? It is possible to teach English without knowing their native language, in fact, it helps them to learn easier when they know they have to use English to communicate.
What’s one key piece of advice you’ve embraced? To have patience for myself and others when learning something new.
Where do you find inspiration? I find inspiration in my students that come from other countries and are here living in the United States learning English. They are able to overcome so many obstacles.
What are your future plans or ambitions? I plan to continue teaching ESL in the future.
