Jamie Massey has joined the Darlington Community as a third-grade teacher. She brings with her 18 years of experience in education, serving most recently as a second-grade teacher at Cave Spring Elementary School.
"I should have recognized my desire to be a teacher of young children when I was in first grade," Massey said. "I would regularly pretend to be my first-grade teacher, Mrs. Susan Childers, while playing school complete with a chalk board, high heels, a rocking chair and reading aloud to my 'students.' But it wasn't until my third year of college that I officially decided to follow my desire to be an early childhood educator. Mrs. Childers continued to tremendously influence my career as she hired me for my first teaching position in 1996."
Massey holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the State University of West Georgia as well as an M.Ed. and an Ed.S., both in Early Childhood Education, from Jacksonville State University. Additionally, she holds certifications in Early Childhood Education (P-5), Learning Disabilities (P-12), Educational Leadership (P-12), Reading Endorsement and Gifted Endorsement.
"I believe building a unique relationship with each student and creating a positive learning atmosphere in the classroom are extremely important," Massey said. "Each student is capable and can learn when the curriculum and instructional practices are designed and implemented to accommodate different learning modalities. I like to include music, movement, hands-on, problem-solving and group activities when planning for instruction."
In her long career as an educator, Massey also spent several years as a family literacy coordinator for Floyd County Schools and as the coordinator of their 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program.
"I strive to be guide or facilitator, setting high expectations while incorporating fun, purposeful and meaningful tasks," she said. "While I want to engage and challenge my students, I want to inspire growth beyond the classroom in the way of character and service. I feel that a successful learning environment will happen with high expectations and collaboration with colleagues, parents and community."
Massey is a native of Cave Spring who says she prefers a slow, laid-back lifestyle and is addicted to all things Disney. She and her husband of 19 years, Jon, have two daughters, Jalyn ('20) and Jonna, 9 years old.
"There is much laughter and teamwork in our home," she said. "My family worships together and enjoys participating in church activities. We enjoy vacationing, especially to Disney World! We also like to swim, take day trips and play with our chocolate lab, Julie."
Massey adds that though she has been a Darlington mom for the past two years, she looks forward to getting to know more of the students and their families this year as a third-grade teacher.
"I realize that I am a learner and am, therefore, excited about continuing to grow and learn along with my students," she said. "My family and I cannot wait to be even more involved in the Darlington Community and to participate in the many school events and activities."
