Teacher Spotlight Mrs. Avau

Writer: Kah’Ron Oates

Hello, I am Kah’Ron Oates, a high school student at Valley Christian Schools. I had the opportunity to interview a new teacher, Mrs. Avau! I asked her a few questions, and here is how she responded.

Interview Questions and Answers

Can you tell me a little about yourself and your teaching experience?

Mrs. Avau: My name is Mrs. Jennifer Avau, and I’m so excited to be a part of the Valley Christian School team this year! I have been in the teaching profession for over 22 years. I taught second grade at Rhema Christian School for my first seven years after college. I then stayed home for six years to raise my children. After that, I returned to teaching at New Castle Christian School, where I taught preschool for 14 years before coming to Valley Christian School.

How did you find out about Valley Christian School?

Mrs. Avau: I was introduced to Valley Christian School by a colleague who was looking into different Christian schools in Ohio. I am so thankful that God opened the door for me to become part of this school community.

What made you want to become a special education teacher?

Mrs. Avau: For the past couple of years, God has placed it on my heart to work with children who may need some extra support with learning. I feel very blessed to be the K–2 Special Education teacher at Valley Christian Elementary. I really enjoy helping students discover their strengths and finding ways to help them succeed.

What did you want your classroom to be like?

Mrs. Avau: I wanted my classroom to feel safe, comfortable, welcoming, and bright. I want my students to have a place where they feel comfortable being themselves and where they can learn and grow. It is important to me that students know they are supported and cared for.

When did you first know that you wanted to become a teacher?

Mrs. Avau: I actually knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was in second grade! I had an amazing teacher who made learning so much fun. She inspired me to become a teacher at a very young age. I want to help children succeed in the same way that she helped me.

What subjects do you enjoy teaching the most?

Mrs. Avau: I love teaching Bible and phonics. I believe these two subjects are very important foundations. Bible helps us learn how to live our lives for God, while phonics gives students the skills they need to learn to read His Word. I love being able to teach both academics and faith together.

What do you think is the best way to help students who struggle in school?

Mrs. Avau: I think the best way to teach children who may struggle socially or academically is through support and encouragement. It is so important to get to know each student and understand what works best for them. Every child is different, so I like to provide different strategies to help each student succeed.

How do you make learning fun for your students?

Mrs. Avau: I like to make my lessons interactive and hands-on whenever possible. Students learn and remember more when they are actively involved in the lesson. I want learning to be something they enjoy and look forward to at school.

What are you most excited about this school year?

Mrs. Avau: I am most excited about getting to know my students and helping them grow throughout the year. I am looking forward to seeing their confidence increase as they learn new things and discover what they can accomplish.

What is one thing you hope your students remember about you?

Mrs. Avau: I hope my students remember that I believed in them and encouraged them to do their best. I want them to know that they are special, loved, and capable of learning and growing. Most importantly, I want them to know that God has a special plan and purpose for their lives.

Is there anything else you would like to share about being a teacher at Valley Christian School?

Mrs. Avau: I am truly looking forward to a wonderful year teaching at Valley Christian School. I feel very blessed to be here, and I am excited to see what God has planned for this school year. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with students and help them grow both academically and spiritually.