Ms. Ellington (right)
By Lenaia Powell
Amongst the plethora of newer teachers at Apopka, Ms. Ellington is one with an incredible backstory pertaining to teaching. Formerly teaching in Africa, and prior to that working as a construction manager, Ms. Ellington’s travels and story contain admirable deeds and an inspiring tale for women. Having specialized in a variety of fields and served as a beacon of hope for many, this is one teacher who will most likely be remembered here for many years.
What all do you teach here and how long have you been teaching here?
I teach ceramics, Ceramics I and Ceramics II, and this is my second year doing it.
Where were you before Apopka?
Kenya. I was teaching in Kenya.
Did you teach Ceramics there too?
I taught art. I taught art and math, in Kenya.
Ms. Ellington with kids in Kenya
Have you always been into art?
No, I haven’t. I did other things.
Like what?
Well, I have a degree in building construction, so I did construction management for over ten years, and then I decided that I would go into teaching. I had an opportunity to go work in an orphanage in Africa, and I went and did that.
Is that what inspired you to teach, being offered that opportunity?
Yes. Yeah, I’ve always wanted to… I think I’ve always kinda wanted to teach, but I went and tried something else and I didn’t really like it so I came back.
What would you say is the most memorable experience you’ve had (here or in Kenya)?
I would say being near a lion [that] roared. Yeah, that would be my most memorable. That’s the first thing that came to mind. He was right there (points to a few feet away) and roared, so, yeah that was (laughs) scary.
Where have you traveled to and what did you do there, other than Kenya?
I’ve been to, uh, I’ve been to Russia, so Moscow and St. Petersburg, in Russia. So I did all the sights there, I’ve traveled some in Europe like I did the Mediterranean. I was just a typical tourist, just sightseeing. Nothing special.
Do you enjoy working with the kids here?
Yes.
Did you enjoy working with kids in Kenya?
Yes.
What are some of your hobbies?
My hobbies are reading, and I like to travel, what else do I do… drawing and painting.
Do you have a favorite class period or would you prefer not to share?
Prefer not to share, you can put that (laughs).
Do you live far away from the school?
No, I live pretty close. I live around here.
Is there a stereotype associated with teachers that you think applies to you?
[asks students] What teacher stereotype do I fit?
Student: She a laid back teacher. She get along with everybody. She also get on EVERYbody’s nerves.
Ms. Ellington: Who me? Y’all don’t make any sense, I’m chill, get-along with everybody, but I get on everybody’s nerves? That don’t make no sense.
Student: It do make sense! You chill and all, but you too chill so you get on everybody’s nerves.