My name is Curtis Hoggard, and for the past 22 years, I’ve had the honor of shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher at Willow Creek Elementary in rural Ohio. I specialize in 5th-grade education, with a strong focus on reading comprehension, science literacy, and social development. Over the years, I’ve come to believe that teaching is not just a job—it’s a calling. There is no greater reward than watching a student’s eyes light up when they grasp a concept they once struggled with.

Throughout my career, I’ve developed hundreds of customized lesson plans and interactive projects designed to reach learners of all styles. I’ve also led after-school programs in robotics, reading circles, and creative writing. In addition to my work in the classroom, I serve as a mentor for first-year teachers through our district’s educator development program, offering support and classroom strategies to help them succeed.

In 2015, I was honored to receive the Golden Apple Educator Award from our district, recognizing innovation and excellence in teaching. Education has changed a lot since I started, but my mission has always remained the same: to create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment where every child can thrive. I truly believe that every student has the potential to shine—sometimes, they just need someone to believe in them. 

“Reskill or Starve”