Mrs. Paul is very interactive with her students, encouraging them to set goals and reach them. She is very enthusiastic and driven when it comes to learning. Tyrone is very grateful to have Mrs. Paul as a part of the team.

Thank you for everything you do, Mrs. Paul.

Eagle Eye: Why did you become a teacher?

Denise Paul: I became a teacher because, as a teenager, I worked for a summer camp and during that time really realized that I enjoyed working with children.

EE: Why did you choose the subject you teach?

DP: I have worked in different grade levels throughout my career. I started teaching in 2nd grade. Additionally, I taught 1st-grade reading and 5th-grade math. I have taught 4th grade for 8 years and recently made a move from 2nd grade back to 4th grade. I have loved all grade levels that I’ve taught and have made many friendships along the way.

EE: What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone?

DP: I have always loved teaching at Tyrone. My children have attended/attend Tyrone and I love the close community feel within the district. I enjoy getting to know the students and families and being able to follow the success of all my former students.

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

DP: Some of my hobbies are hiking, taking walks, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?

DP: The best advice I’ve been given as a teacher is to remember to always teach each student individually. I have found this advice to be extremely helpful because each student needs supported differently depending on individual circumstances.

EE: What’s the hardest part of teaching and why?

DP: The hardest part of teaching is watching kids struggle with challenges they may face and having a balance between solving problems for them and teaching them how to take steps to solve problems on their own.

EE: What are some jobs held before you got into teaching?

DP: Before I was a teacher, I worked as a social worker in a nursing facility for three years.

EE: What is something that students might be surprised to find out about you?

DP: I taught in Maryland for five years before teaching at Tyrone.

EE: What’s your favorite movie?

DP: Forrest Gump and Uncle Buck

EE: What is your spirit animal? Why?

DP: I feel a dog is my spirit animal because I am independent and also eager to make other people happy.