Shelby Cantwell, special education teacher

Q: What do you teach at PHS?

A: I teach special education and math at PHS this school year.

Q: Where were you teaching before here?

A: Before I joined PHS staff this year, I was teaching at the Youth Reporting Center as an alternative education teacher.

Q: What brought you to PHS?

A: PHS is my alma mater and I always hoped to return one day as a teacher.

Q: How long have you taught?

A: I graduated college in 2015 and have been teaching ever since (seven years).

Q: What are you excited about this year?

A: I am excited to watch my students grow!

Q: How would you describe your teaching style?

A: I would describe my teaching style as relaxed. I see my classroom as a place of mutual respect. My students respect me, and I respect them. We both need each other to be successful.

Q: What do you want your students to know about you?

A: I would like my students to know how happy I am to see them every day!

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

A: As long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher.

Q: Do you have a quote you live by?

A: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” (Albus Dumbledore)

Q: Do you have any hobbies outside of school?

A: I love to read and play video games. I also host exchange students, which isn’t really a hobby but has had a huge impact on my life.

Q: Do you have any advice for students?

A: My advice is to show up every day and TRY. With a little effort, it is amazing what we can accomplish.