Teacher Spotlight: Mrs. Orlando

By VCS Senior Amyah Jenkins

What inspired you to become a teacher? 

I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I feel like I’m making a difference in a child’s life, and I’ve always had a passion for teaching.

How long have you been teaching, and what subjects or grades do you teach? 

I am an Intervention Specialist, which means I am a Special Education teacher. I currently co-teach ELA with Mrs. Pixley and History with Ms. Sample and Mr. Ardunie. I have been teaching Special Education for 23 years.

What do you love most about working with students? 

I love the passion they have for school, as well as seeing students help others who may be struggling with school or personal matters. They are always there for each other.

How would you describe your teaching style? 

I use a co-teaching style. I work with the general education teacher to help differentiate lessons and support students who may be struggling.

What is one lesson or project you look forward to teaching every year? 

I love reading Macbeth in Mrs. Pixley’s class. The students are really engaged, and it’s exciting to see them develop a passion for reading Shakespeare.

What advice would you give students to help them succeed? 

Be actively involved in your studies and enjoy your years in high school. Make wonderful memories.

What advice would you give someone who wants to become a teacher? 

Be passionate about your field of study, and most importantly, be very patient and kind.

What is a fun fact about you that students might not know? 

I have an identical twin sister, and we are mirror twins.

If you weren’t a teacher, what career do you think you would have chosen? 

I would have gone to mortuary school.