South Tech Academy Teacher Makes A Difference

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South Tech Academy Teacher Makes A Difference

Article Taken from: The Palm Beach Post - I Make A Difference

Students who offer excuses don’t fare too well in Emily Ferris’ classes. She posts grades continually so that her charges can feel pride- or see where they need to improve. South Tech Academy Principal Diane Tidwell notes, “This helps to instill accountability. Mrs. Ferris also says, ‘Don’t be sorry, be responsible’ when students are late or don’t turn in homework.”

Emily teaches finance and marketing in ninth through 12th grades at South Tech Academy in Boynton Beach. She believes in teaching real-world applications to her Finance Academy and DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) students. For example, on “Dress for Success” days, which feature guest speakers from the business community, student’s wear professional clothing.

Her DECA students also operate the school store, which sells supplies. They manage employee scheduling, inventory, cash and reordering. Emily takes her DECA students to compete at district and state levels. Winners wear their medals to graduation and feel proud. Those who lose learn to deal with disappointment- a harsh but necessary life lesson.
Last spring, Emily received an unexpected birthday card from a student. Says Emily: “I didn’t feel I was reaching her fully. But in her card, she wrote, ‘I....wanted you to know how much of an inspiration you are...you are appreciated and needed by all. Happy Birthday! “I was reaching her. This made me feel wonderful.”

Article Taken from: The Palm Beach Post - I Make A Difference

Students who offer excuses don’t fare too well in Emily Ferris’ classes. She posts grades continually so that her charges can feel pride- or see where they need to improve. South Tech Academy Principal Diane Tidwell notes, “This helps to instill accountability. Mrs. Ferris also says, ‘Don’t be sorry, be responsible’ when students are late or don’t turn in homework.”

Emily teaches finance and marketing in ninth through 12th grades at South Tech Academy in Boynton Beach. She believes in teaching real-world applications to her Finance Academy and DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) students. For example, on “Dress for Success” days, which feature guest speakers from the business community, student’s wear professional clothing.

Her DECA students also operate the school store, which sells supplies. They manage employee scheduling, inventory, cash and reordering. Emily takes her DECA students to compete at district and state levels. Winners wear their medals to graduation and feel proud. Those who lose learn to deal with disappointment- a harsh but necessary life lesson.

Last spring, Emily received an unexpected birthday card from a student. Says Emily: “I didn’t feel I was reaching her fully. But in her card, she wrote, ‘I....wanted you to know how much of an inspiration you are...you are appreciated and needed by all. Happy Birthday! “I was reaching her. This made me feel wonderful.”