Ms. Lakeisha Johnson-Manuel teaches 5th Grade math and science for the St. James Parish Performing Arts Magnet Program at Gramercy Elementary School. She is entering her 19th year teaching, and has spent all 19 of them here in St. James Parish Schools.
When asked why she chose St. James Parish Schools, Ms. Johnson-Manuel says she is a product of SJPS and wanted to give back and inspire kids in the area. She says, “from 7:30am to 3pm, they are my kids!”
She says that every day is different, but greeting her students, building trust, and feeling as if they can come to her for anything is her favorite part of the job. She loves seeing growth in her students as well because some of the things they must do are difficult and challenging, but she looks forward to their growth in accomplishing those tasks.
Ms. Johnson-Manuel’s advice to new teachers is to always desire to improve because there is always room for growth. She adds to be open to others’ advice, and always reflect on what you’ve done and how to make it better for the next time. She says that it is most important to build bonds with your students and their parents, and you are not alone!