Meet the Teacher Advisory Council: Karen Sexton of Avery ES!

The Cherokee County School District’s newly formed Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council provides educators with the opportunity to share valued feedback.  The talent of our teachers is unparalleled and their dedication to go the extra mile is unmatched!  Over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing each Council member to our community.  You can learn more about the Council and see the full list of its members online here.

Karen Sexton of Avery Elementary School

A 10-year educator, Karen Sexton teaches third-grade English language arts at Avery Elementary School. A Cherokee High School alum (Class of 2007 ... and where she met her husband), Karen worked as a Georgia Pre-K teacher for one year before joining CCSD. Since joining CCSD, Karen also has taught kindergarten and first grade.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher. I loved working with children no matter the age or the concepts being taught. When I was in high school, I taught cheerleading and gymnastics. I also worked as an After School Program worker in our CCSD school system through the high school work exit program and through college. I was also a nanny for two and a half years of a local family and their sweet boy. No matter the age, I truly loved watching each child grow in their skills whether it was cartwheels, learning strategies to work with others, or how to eat on their own. This is what inspired me to be a teacher.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?
I love the relationships I build with my students and watching their confidence grow as they master new concepts. Their ability to trust me enough to make mistakes and guide them toward success is truly an honor and I am blessed to witness their growth each day.

How do you elevate the excellence in your classroom?
I elevate the excellence each day by differentiating my instruction regularly, using data to drive my instruction, and providing immediate feedback as often as possible so students can be the best version of themselves. I also meet each child where they are at; then challenge them from there because all students can be successful when provided the appropriate supports.

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