Listen

Watch

Can you tell us about yourself? 

My name is Vicki Dayton. I teach at Mount Horeb elementary school. I am a kindergarten teacher. I have taught at this school for seven years and another school in our County for 20. My school is located in Dandridge, Tennessee.

Why did you start a career in education?

I chose teaching because I love working with children. I like watching them grow and learn.

If you could have any other job what would it be and why?

If I could have another job, it would be a park ranger. I enjoy being outside and outdoors. And even after retirement, I'm thinking about being a volunteer at a park.

How are kids different now than 30 years ago?

How our kids did today than they were 30 years ago. I do not think they pay attention as well. And I think that, behaviors are much worse.

How is teaching different now than 30 years ago?

How is teaching different now than 30 years ago? Teaching in kindergarten is much more academic. We did a lot of social skills and a lot of play and learning through play, 30 years ago. But, today, they're having to do really first and second-grade work compared to 30 years ago.

What would you tell someone who wants to become a teacher?

What would I tell someone who is wanting to become a teacher? I would tell them that teaching is a lot of work, but it is also very rewarding.

What is one thing you would change to help kids learn better?

What is one thing I would change? I would go back to more social skills and, and social learning. I think children even later on in high school are lacking those skills because in the early grades, things are so much more academic then, um, you know, learning those social skills.