Questions and answers with Mrs. Salmon: 

Toni Salmon, eighth-grade science teacher, was selected by her peers to be Rockvale Middle School Teacher of The Year. During a recent Q&A session with The Raven's Quill, Mrs. Salmon discussed the balance she has between her personal life and teaching career. 

 

Why did you become a teacher?  

I became a teacher because I genuinely enjoy working with children. I have always enjoyed science, biology, and anatomy classes, so becoming a Science teacher was the perfect fit for me. 

 

Where did you grow up? 

I grew up in Shelbyville, TN which is about 30 minutes south of here. 

 

What do you think makes a teacher good?  

As far as what makes a teacher good, I think it's being able to form positive relationships with your students. When a student knows that a teacher genuinely cares about them, they will usually work harder and feel more comfortable in that specific classroom. 

 

What else do you do? 

In my free time, I simply enjoy spending time with my family. I have a husband, a five-year-old, a 3-year-old, and a German Shepherd that keep me pretty busy. We also enjoy going to MTSU football games, Nashville soccer games, and Nashville Predator Hockey. 

 

Do you have a fun memory to share from her years as a teacher? 

My best memories from being a teacher are hearing from past students and seeing the awesome things they are doing now. I have also formed some of the best friendships with my coworkers that I think will last a lifetime. 

 

Did you ever dream of being a teacher as a child? 

When I initially went to MTSU, I was an exercise science major. I ultimately wanted to be a physical therapist. While I was attending MTSU, I got a job with Murfreesboro City Schools ESP (extended school program). I began working at Hobgood Elementary and eventually Erma Siegel Elementary. I absolutely fell in love with working with children. I changed my major to education a year before I would have graduated with my Exercise Science degree. 

 

How do you feel being teacher of the year? 

There are so many phenomenal teachers at this school so I am honored to have been chosen by my peers as this years teacher of the year. Given everything teachers have had to overcome and work through this year, I think all teachers deserve a teacher of the year recognition!