Photo courtesy of Ms. Goodwin

Did you know that Ms. Goodwin is the longest-serving teacher in the Charlottesville High School English department? Well, it’s true, she has been teaching English for 20 years. Ms. Goodwin currently teaches English 10 and the creative writing elective at CHS. English has been one of her fascinations for a long time, and it has helped her see the world differently. English has also helped Ms. Goodwin to see different perspectives and lifestyles to help her grow as a person. 

“The language arts have always been a chance for me and other people to see a world outside my own. Writing, reading, and talking to others is a way of coming together to learn, listen, and be entertained.  We share a common human element through theater, music, and stories,” says Ms. Goodwin.

Ms. Goodwin’s biggest takeaway from teaching high school students is that students are about to embark on their journey and that’s a way for her to keep learning and growing and it provides other teachers the same opportunity. She would also advise a new high school student to be ready to listen and pay attention. “Finding a balance between working hard and having time to do the things you love is significant too,” she says. 

If Ms. Goodwin could teach any other subject, she would choose humanities, psychology, art, or physical education. In her free time, Ms. Goodwin enjoys “spending time outside in nature, whether walking, hiking, running, or reading a book in the sun. Being able to move and exercise is also really important for my well-being.” 

Teaching can throw at you loads of highs and lows. However, it is beneficial for students and teachers alike. If both parties put in effort, school can be an enjoyable experience. As Ms. Goodwin states, “Teaching or being a student allows the chance to keep learning. Change is inevitable, so being able to find comfort while being a bit uncomfortable allows growth.” If it is one thing students could never forget, it is a great teacher.