Ms. Morris is one of those teachers who strive for success. She was chosen to be this April’s Staffer of the Month, because of her prestigious teaching skills in her Global History classes. Her classes are filled group activities, interesting projects, and insightful debates. Her involvement at FDR has truly been influential. She has helped pave the way for innumerable students, in order for them to achieve and prosper in the future.
Q: Why did you become a History teacher?
A: As a student, my History teacher always said studying History helps one to be informed and to be able to have an intelligent conversation with anyone from any culture. This statement has really motivated me to be the History teacher I am.
Q: What made you want to teach at FDR High School?
A: I joined FDR High School to work with well mannered, motivated, and disciplined students who make me look forward to come to work every single day.
Q: In your opinion, how should a student prepare themselves for the Global History Regents?
A: The Global Regents Exam is a thorough exam, as it covers Global 1 through Global 4. Students should be made aware from Global that they should keep all of their History materials such as tests, quizzes, and corrected homework assignments. Materials from Global 1 through Global 4 should be placed in a portfolio for future references. Special emphasis should be placed on knowing vocabulary words for every Thematic Essay given as homework. They should use their textbook to gather information to write each paragraph. Peer tutoring and study groups should also be utilized.
Q: In your opinion, why do you think History is important for students to study?
A: History is a very interesting subject that tells us about man’s past, thoughts, and actions, and how these have led to the making of today’s world. We study History in order to better understand how our society and other societies came to be what they are, to learn from the mistakes our ancestors made, and to take advantage of their successes.
Q: What are some of your most vivid memories at FDR High School?
A: The History Challenge competition in each of my History classes, the excellent project presentations, and the fun we have during our History Class parties will be remembered indelibly in my mind.
Q: Which historical era do you enjoy teaching the most? Why?
A: I do have a passion for History, so every topic to me is very important. No one topic bears me a heavier weight than the other.
Q: What do you think makes the perfect student?
A: One who is dedicated, hard-working, well-mannered, and ambitious.
Q: What are some of your favorite phrases?
A: Ms. Morris doesn’t teach failures.
Where there is life, there is hope.
If at first you don’t succeed, try! Try! Try again!
Q: If you could go back in time and change your profession, what would it be and why?
A: The only job, apart from teaching, I once had an interest in was to be a flight attendant. Back home in Jamaica, every girl’s dream was to be a flight attendant, because of the opportunity to meet people and to travel to different places around the world.
Well, that was certainly something which we did not know! Congratulations! We hope you continue to inspire FDR’s students for years to come!