Teachers are the Difference: Joan Claybourn

Joan Claybourn
Doherty Unit I Teacher

By melding captivating lessons, nurturing guidance, and a dedication to personalized instruction, Doherty Unit I teacher Joan Claybourn kindles curiosity, fosters self-assurance, and instills a lasting enthusiasm for learning in her students.

“My goal is to create a space where each student feels valued, respected, and encouraged to explore their unique abilities and perspectives,” Claybourn said. “Establishing a solid foundation for academic growth is essential, and I focus on students cultivating a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.”

Claybourn tailors her approach to accommodate each student’s learning style, meeting them at their current level. With small class sizes, she can customize her instruction to match each student’s skill level and development.

“I love teaching first grade,” Claybourn said. “I never knew the importance of losing teeth until I moved to this grade. Watching the children grow and learn from the beginning of the year to the end is gratifying. First graders are very loving and hard-working.”

Every morning, Claybourn and her students gather to begin their day with their “Morning Meeting,” which provides a space for students to greet one another, share things about their lives, and discuss the day’s schedule. Claybourn uses the fun yet purposeful meeting to set the tone for a productive day.

Furthermore, if a student is taking a trip, Claybourn designs a lesson that delves into the destination before they leave and facilitates a post-trip discussion upon their return. This approach empowers the traveling student to share firsthand insights with their classmates, offering valuable perspectives on how different people, places, and cultures interact with one another.

“I have taught at Seven Hills for 27 years and have loved every minute of my time here,” Claybourn said. “I especially love the community and support at Doherty. There is a strong spirit of professionalism and care that I can’t imagine can compare to anywhere else. Seven Hills has helped me grow as a person, mom, friend, co-worker, and teacher.”