Sisterhood Spotlight

What inspired you to become a teacher?

Several factors culminated in my desire to become a teacher. First, I was raised in an environment that placed a great value on pursuing and attaining a good education. Therefore, educators were highly respected in both my family and my community. My father encouraged me to teach in my hometown in Southside Virginia. Second, when I entered college, I felt adrift. I knew I needed a solid college education, but I was unsure about what career path I really wanted to pursue. Lastly, I have had such memorable experiences with so many teachers that I wanted to make a positive impact on young people.

What does it mean to you to be named Regional Teacher of the Year?

I’m extremely proud to represent Region 8. I have lived and taught in other areas of the state and country, but Region 8 is my home. I grew up in Lunenburg County. I live in Mecklenburg County, and I teach in Brunswick County. I am especially proud that this award brings attention to the middle school in Brunswick County. James Solomon Russell was a Virginian who dedicated his life to the education of people throughout Southside Virginia, so I am humbled and honored to represent the school that bears his name.

Region 8 certainly has its unique challenges. Access to an infrastructure that supports technology and employment opportunities that provide a livable wage and improved quality of life are major issues that impact the school divisions in our region. However, the teachers in the region continue to push past these obstacles to provide the highest-quality learning opportunities that are possible. I am so proud of the work that my colleagues and I have accomplished.

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with girls who are interested in becoming teachers?

Do it! I would advise young women to find a positive mentor and become a volunteer. Summer school sessions are a great time to connect with educators and observe the school environment. Despite its frustrations, education is a fulfilling career. Unfortunately, social media seems to promote the difficulties of teaching. We rarely get to see students who are engaged, parents that are involved and teachers who are working together with administrators to promote favorable learning environments. However, all these events are happening every day across the state. In the words of my colleague, “This is the best time to be a teacher.”

What are some things you hope your students take away from their 8th-grade experience?

Of course, I want my students to be exceptional writers, readers and critical thinkers. More than anything, I want my students to know that they can accomplish whatever they desire. Social media, television and video games seem to have given our young people an unrealistic definition of success. Ultimately, our kids internalize these warped standards and devalue themselves. I want my students to know that I believe in them. I’m cheering for them. I want them to look beyond the financial, social and racial obstacles that they have been imposed with to realize a better future for themselves and their communities.

Was there any reason why you decided to teach eighth-grade English?

Eighth grade is a really fun grade. It is fascinating to watch students mature from the confines of childhood and embark on their path through adolescence. Some students may take a little longer than others, but they all grow so much in their final year of middle school both physically and mentally. Of course, their emotions need a little more time to catch up with these changes, but it remains a very pivotal time in their lives, and I enjoy being a part of that growth. 

I simply love reading and writing. As a child, reading was my escape from my rural hometown. My father was a printer by trade. I can remember being asked to proofread text even when I was very young. I have a natural love for English that I love to share with my students.

How do you relax or pick yourself up at the end of a long day?

I enjoy spending time with my son, Noah. We are both superhero and comic book nerds, so we’re always scouting out the latest comic book editions and movie releases. I also enjoy reading and chatting with my close friends.

About Tequisha Stiles

Ms. Tequisha Stiles is part of a large family that has always emphasized the importance of a solid educational foundation. For many African American families in rural Virginia, education has been considered the vehicle for achieving financial independence and civic responsibility. Ms. Stiles was inspired by this reverence for education and compelled to become a classroom teacher. Her most significant contribution to the education profession is her ability to establish an environment of support and mutual respect for her student. Ms. Stiles has demonstrated an ability to transform the school culture into a community of care in which all students feel valued. As a teacher at James Solomon Russell Middle School, Ms. Stiles has served as a mentor for new teachers, chairperson of the English department and a data team leader. Over her impressive career as an educator, Ms. Stiles remains committed to her mission of ensuring that every student feels valued. She challenges her students to look beyond the sometimes-harsh realities of their present circumstances to see themselves successfully fulfilling their lifelong dreams.