AP Lit teacher warms hearts, sees greatness in each student
February 10, 2015
Laurie Porter helps senior Krystal Washington write an annotated bibliography. “She is really helpful and I believe she wants us to succeed. I feel confident about my annotated bibliography with her guidance,” Washington said.
Champion instructors pursue impactful roles in their students’ lives. Instead of enforcing rigid rules and building barriers, these individuals create comfortable learning environments. Within their classrooms, students can escape the horrors of boredom because champion instructors seek creativity. Their daily agenda includes artistic activities that enhance the learning experience.
With passion and intentionality, these teachers dedicate genuine interest toward their scholars. In a Warrior Nation filled with champion instructors, AP Literature teacher Laurie Porter exemplifies the golden standard.
As a veteran NC Warrior, Porter has served two tours of duty. She entered orange territory in 1990 and worked until 1992 upon having her first child. After an 8-year hiatus, she returned in 2000. With 17 years and counting, Porter continues to encourage students.
Keen on literature, Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Sallinger draws teacher Laurie Porter as senior Shelby Szucs reads . “I really enjoy literature with an enthusiastic teacher like Mrs. Porter,” said Szucs.
Her sweet and mellow personality, literary expertise, and kind words make her an NC favorite. A combination of southern charm and Victorian poise, Porter maintains her queenliness while offering hospitality to each student. She possesses a motherly intuition and cares about each student, while not crippling their success with babying.
Students appreciate her clear instructions and expectations. Before entering new units, she distributes rubrics and calendars to influence productivity and organization. When she assigns essays, Porter conducts one-on-one sessions to assure each student.
“I really do try to see the best in every student. And I’m not making that up, I really do see greatness in each one,” Porter assured.
When speaking about new readings, she bursts with excitement that spreads throughout her classroom. From Jane Eyre and The Mayor of Casterbridge to A Raisin in the Sun and A Doll’s House, Porter displays genuine interest in all elements of writing. But she finds pure enjoyment in the Victorian era’s works. Porter’s wanderlust and book obsession intertwines in perfect harmony. While studying abroad in “the mother country,” she developed a love for England. She also visited Germany and plans to visit Israel and Greece, “where Socrates walked.”
“I think she’s very passionate about literature and sharing it with the students. She’s a teacher who truly cares about her job and enhancing the knowledge of her students,” senior Alex Maxwell said.
As a champion teacher, Ms. Porter’s influence remains a source of strength for AP Literature students.
From her current students