Erin Shaw-Rebb’s love for words and her students is what inspired her to become an English teacher.
“My students always inspire me. I can find energy from their positive and curious vibes when I am teaching,” Rebb said. “I like their ideas. I find it interesting to figure out how they learn best. Also, they are funny humans, making me laugh and remember the important things in life often.”
Growing up, her favorite teachers at Clarkston High School pushed her to be a good teacher, and now she aims to do the same for her students. She hopes her students take away more than just literature skills.
“I hope they know I care enough to help them and will challenge them to achieve more than they thought they could,” Rebb explains. “I hope they view me as kind and willing to help them. I hope they return the same kindness to others as they grow older.”
Rebb later reflected on one of her favorite books, Pride and Prejudice, saying, “She [Jane Austen] believed in a world where people could love, value others, and create mutual respect, regardless of demographics and human flaws, because we ALL have flaws…I also want to live in a world such as that.”
Her advice to students? “Work on proper communication in different contexts…drink lots of water every day…and get at least 8 hours of sleep at night,” Rebb states. “Also, choose the people who choose you. They are your people. If you haven’t found them yet, hang in there! You will. The world is bigger than Clarkston.”
Rebb also elaborated on one of her most memorable moments in her years of teaching, saying, “One of my former students, dressed in his full Army uniform, returned one day to hug me and tell me thank you for ‘putting up with him’ and helping him pass my class.”
As you can see, Mrs. Rebb loves her students and is inspired by their energy and humor, aiming to teach kindness and confidence along with literature. She encourages students to take care of themselves and find their supportive people.
