Preschool Teacher, Brenda Sheridan, Retires After 39 Years of Fulfilling Lifelong Dream of Teaching

Prekindergarten 4 Teacher Brenda Sheridan has not only worked in Norfolk Public Schools for nearly 40 years, but she too was a student in Norfolk from elementary through high school. For Sheridan being a teacher was something see dreamed of doing since she was very young. She has been on the frontlines of seeing early learners be introduced to school and concepts to help them succeed as they matriculate through Norfolk Public Schools at Tidewater Park Elementary and ending her career at Oceanair Elementary School. 

Question: How did you end up working in education and specifically, Norfolk Public Schools? 

Sheridan: I knew I wanted to be a teacher since the age of five. While my older sister was at school, I would place all our dolls and stuffed animals around our room in preparation for playing school, as soon as she got off the school bus.  Neither of us wavered in our decision to choose a career in education. When our father retired from the Marine Corps, he moved our family from Jacksonville, North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia. I attended John T. West Elementary and Jacox Junior High School. I graduated from Norview High School and went on to attend and graduate from Old Dominion University. 

Question: Tell me about what you did in your role(s) and why you stayed at Norfolk Public Schools for so long?

Sheridan: My first teaching position was at Tidewater Park Elementary. While working for NPS for 39 years, I spent 16 years in kindergarten and 23 years in pre-K. I felt it was an honor to give back to the community from which I was nurtured. 

Question: Why do you think your role/department is critical to NPS?

Sheridan: As an early childhood educator, I set the stage for how children view school and learning in general. I strived to help my students feel not only successful but also loved, respected, and valued. Also, I wanted them to be comfortable taking risks knowing that it is from our mistakes that we learn. Most importantly, I wanted my students to feel safe. 

Question: What did you enjoy most about your role?

Sheridan: I loved seeing a child's face light up when he/she learned how to do something. I loved seeing the impact various kinds of music could have on the children. I thoroughly loved reading stories every day. I strived to share my love and excitement for reading.  It is my hope that the children will become lifelong readers.   

Question: What will you miss the most in your role?

Sheridan: As I packed my classroom up for the last time, I became overwhelmed with different emotions. I will miss the students' hugs terribly and the many conversations that were held during lunch. I will also miss the adult friendships formed over the years.    

Question: What advice would you give to someone in your role and in general at NPS?

Sheridan: Here are some suggestions:

Start writing down the funny things children say.  It could possibly be a Best Seller one day!

Don't forget to give attention to the quiet, shy, well-behaved child in your room. They are easily forgotten. 

When you don't know what to do, make music, read a book, or act out a familiar story.

Celebrate each child's birthday in some special way. 

As Sheridan closes this nearly 40-year chapter with Norfolk Public Schools, we would like to thank her for her intentionality and dedication to teaching young minds. As a former student turned teacher, her impact will be missed in Norfolk. 

Norfolk Public Schools is grateful to Brenda Sheridan for all she has done in the division and wish her an incredible retirement.