New Orleans teacher in the running to be ‘America’s Favorite Teacher’
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A teacher at George Washington Carver High School could become “America’s Favorite Teacher.”
He’s in the running in a Reader’s Digest national contest and is currently in the top three, but he needs your vote.
Elliot Pernell is back at George Washington Carver High School, the school he graduated from in 2001, but now he’s a Financial Literacy teacher.
“A large part is giving is giving back. I thought the most effective way to give back is to be back in the building on a daily basis,” said Pernell.
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He went on to say, “I have such a passion for financial literacy. I grew up in this area. So, I understand the dynamics of the area.”
Pernell wants to teach his students how to manage money through savings accounts, credit cards and business operations.
“I hope they use my mistakes as a road map. I think when it comes to education it is about self-sacrifice. You sacrifice yourself now for the betterment of where you’ll be later,” he said.
His methods make him a top teacher. He’s been nominated as “America’s Favorite Teacher,” as part of a Reader’s Digest contest.
“When you think of America’s Favorite Teacher, it is different than being New Orleans’ favorite teacher or your school’s favorite teacher,” said Pernell.
“He connects a lot. You can tell he likes being a teacher. He comes to school with a smile on his face, and he’s funny and energetic,” said George Washington Carver High School sophomore Amryi Bailey.
Rayhienz Henry, a sophomore at George Washington Carver High School, said, “He’s a good person, a genuine good-hearted person.”
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“I learned a lot from him. I learned how to budget my money and master my credit cards,” said George Washington Carver High School junior Endia Piercey.
The most important lesson of all, Pernell says, is “Always look forward. Think about the decisions you make and how it will look down the line.”
For more information, visit the America’s Favorite Teacher website.
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