Employment History:
English Department Head, Wylie Independent School District, TX (1972-1974); Art Department Head, Wylie Independent School District, TX (1971-1974)

Published Works:

Public Speaking Experience:

Why She is an Expert:
For the past 35 years, she has established a proven track record of success. Her company is a resource for tutoring, home-schooling, distance-learning, art programs and special needs instruction.

Best Advice:
"I would advise anyone – whether in the classroom or not – that teaching in any capacity should be a heartfelt calling. You should have the desire to not only transfer knowledge but to share your thoughts and life experience. Students will respond to this and take more responsibility for their education. Teaching is a rewarding profession. You must be genuine, as students see right through a façade."

Passionate about:
"I am passionate about life in general. I am passionate about teaching, learning, family, students, the kind treatment of animals and my own pets. I am also passionate about fairness and keeping one’s word. All phases of life are important to me, so I am passionate about the care and respect for older citizens."

Biography Excerpt:
Sherry Philips is an inspired educator who has dedicated the past 35 years to enriching the lives of children and pre-professionals. As the owner of Miss Sherry's Studies and Enrichment Program, she provides private academic and art instruction to students ranging from kindergarten through the university level. She received her degree in English and art, summa cum laude, in 1971 from East Texas A&M University and holds a teaching certification for all grade levels. Ms. Philips’ approach to education extends beyond the dissemination of vital curriculum and factual information. She also evaluates each student’s needs and helps them raise their confidence through enrichment.

     

Cambridge Who's Who: What is the most difficult challenge you have faced in pursuit of your goals?  
SHERRY E PHILIPS :  `The challenges are many, but they revolve around the fact that we have limited time. Finding personal time is very difficult. In addition to teaching six to seven days a week, I also create Individual Educational Programs [IEP], attend ARD [Admission, Review and Dismissal] meetings, complete tutorial reviews, generate student profiles and conduct research. Teaching the students to actually think and not regurgitate information is also difficult. I convince them that they have the ability and experience to absorb information and think for themselves.

What is the most significant issue facing your profession today?
State requirements are always changing. What began as the “No Pass No Play” policy under Governor Mark White became a special interest to President George W. Bush. While Texas governor, he passed the “No Child Left Behind” act. In my professional opinion, more students have been lost in the system since. There were good intentions behind this program, but its implementation has stifled teaching and learning. Instead of instructing students on the needed curriculum, teachers – especially in the elementary grades – spend a majority of the year teaching students how to pass standardized exams. Education should teach how to learn, not how to pass tests. A large number of high-achieving students are so anxiety-ridden about taking these standardized exams that they fail them.