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Faculty Focus: Clay Francis
Clay Francis
Classes: Upper School Human Geography, Spanish I
Cocurricular Involvement: Rock Climbing Club
Q. What was your path to teaching? Did you always know you wanted to be a teacher?
Q. What is your teaching philosophy?
Q. What do you love most about teaching at GPS?
Q. As a new teacher at GPS this year, what have your first few weeks been like?
Q. What are you enjoying about Chattanooga so far? Anything you’re looking forward to?
Q. What are you most looking forward to this year?
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Classes: Upper School Human Geography, Spanish I
Cocurricular Involvement: Rock Climbing Club
Q. What was your path to teaching? Did you always know you wanted to be a teacher?
A. My path to teaching had several fits and starts. I’ve left the classroom twice to go back to school—once for a degree in environmental law and then for a degree in educational research and leadership. Each time, the parts of my job that I enjoyed the most were somehow connected to teaching. I’m glad I saw those other professions because it made me appreciate how much I enjoy teaching—it also gave me a different perspective to think about my teaching work in the context of other professions.
Q. What is your teaching philosophy?
A. No significant student learning can happen without strong relationships between students and their teachers. I try to make sure that I connect with every single student in a personal way every class even if it’s just to say their name and give a warm welcome to my room.
Q. What do you love most about teaching at GPS?
A. The students, faculty, and staff have been so welcoming! I appreciate that openness and willingness to invite new folks to be a part of the community.
Q. As a new teacher at GPS this year, what have your first few weeks been like?
A. Hectic, but in the best possible way. Many of the traditions are wholly unique, but some of the first of the week activities are similar to what I’ve experienced working in an all-girls school for the past 10 years.
Q. What are you enjoying about Chattanooga so far? Anything you’re looking forward to?
A. I am loving being outside at every possible moment. The trail running is great, and I enjoy being in a city where everyone seems to have a connection to the outdoors. My wife and I have tried a new trail every weekend, and we haven’t been disappointed yet. I am looking forward to my first 50k this December at Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Q. What are you most looking forward to this year?
A. I look forward to learning about and participating in all the traditions that make GPS great!
To learn more about upper school at GPS, click here.
To learn more about upper school at GPS, click here.
