| Sources |
- [S23] Atchley Funeral Home, (http://www.atchleyfuneralhome.com/), 12 Feb 2007.
Minnie Ruth Headrick Tipton obituary
- [S106] The Mountain Press, 23 Feb 2009.
Stiles enjoys making learning fun
For Gail Stiles, Sevier County Primary Grades Teacher of the Year, there's never a dull moment during her days as a third grade teacher.
"Things are constantly changing," said Stiles, a Sevier County native. "This year I have 16 children all day, and it's a challenge trying to meet all of their needs. You have to learn each child's learning style and adapt to that style. You can't teach everyone the same way."
It's a challenge on which she thrives, however.
"I've taught just about all of the primary grades, and I really enjoy third grade. There's so much more material to get into; we do a lot of science and math. And the kids are at a good age, they're still young enough to be sweet and attentive and love their teacher."
Stiles "had no clue" she wanted to be a teacher until she entered college.
"I was interested in psychology and working with children," she said. "My mother was also a substitute teacher and I would listen to her tell stories. When I took an Introduction to Education course in college, that sealed the deal."
She began teaching in the fall of 1981 at the old Northview Primary School. The next year she transferred to Pigeon Forge Primary, where she's been ever since.
She appreciates the thanks she receives from students and parents, both past and present. They'll often write her notes or stop by to say hello.
Stiles even had a picture of every class she taught displayed on her classroom walls, until she ran out of room.
"I enjoy seeing kids learn and have a good time at the same time. They surprise you; sometimes you'll think they're not listening, and then they'll turn around and explain it to another child.
"I think all teachers need to treat their students with respect and realize they're people, too; they're little people. I think they have a greater respect for their teacher if that teacher relates what they're learning to their life."
The single mother of two sons (Matt, a student at East Tennessee State University, and Zach, a senior at Pigeon Forge High School) stays "busy all of the time."
"That's the way I like it," she said.
When she's not in the classroom, she enjoys staying active as an independent director for The Pampered Chef, a direct sales company that offers kitchen tools. Stiles also loves music and often has jamming sessions with friends.
"We get together on the weekends and play rock and roll," she said.
While the longtime teacher has taught her students a wealth of information, Stiles has learned quite a bit herself.
"I learn something new from my students every day," she said, smiling.
ebrown@themountainpress.com
- [S58] Marriage Certificate.
32415 RICHARD EDWARD ATCHLEY CAROL TIPTON
- [S58] Marriage Certificate.
Groom's Name Bride's First Name Bride's Maiden Name County Date of Marriage File #
STILES DONALD D GAIL A [NOT GIVEN] SEVIER 05-03-1984 18326
- [S58] Marriage Certificate.
60209 DONALD DAVID STILES GAIL DENISE ATCHLEY
- [S131] Divorce Record.
Husband's Name Wife's First Name Wife's Maiden Name County Court Date of Divorce File #
STILES DONALD D GAIL ATCHLEY SEVIER CIRCUIT 02-17-2004 02541
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