NEWS

Faculty Fridays Spotlight: Shellie Lackey

December 22nd, 2023


In this series, we’re highlighting Selwyn’s faculty and staff. In the classroom, we know our faculty are dynamic and engaged educators with subject matter expertise and an insatiable curiosity to learn. But what are they like out of the classroom? Find out!
 
Faculty Friday Spotlight:
Shellie Lackey | Reading Specialist
 
How many years have you been in education?
38. The first 26 as a classroom teacher and the past 12 as a licensed dyslexia therapist.
 
What’s your favorite class or project to teach?
I absolutely love teaching children to read! As a classroom teacher, I always sought ways to help students who struggled despite their apparent intelligence. Being trained as a therapist gave me the tools to bridge the gaps experienced by poor readers. One of the most rewarding experiences is seeing the smile on a child’s face when their confidence soars and they begin to achieve success!
 
What’s the best book you’ve read this year?
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
 
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I love mindless Facebook games! As silly as it sounds, I have a virtual farm that I have played for roughly eight years! My brother, mother, and aunt were all on the same team until my mother recently passed; however, my brother and aunt still play together.
 
What’s a fun fact about you?
I used to be quite athletic. In high school, I played basketball and ran track. I participated in the state Cross Country Meet during my sophomore year, representing my school. Our team had the quickest time going into the meet and was the favorite to take the gold in the sprint relay. Unfortunately, the first leg jumped the gun, which led to our team being disqualified. (and I was not the first leg!)
 
What’s a hobby you enjoy outside of school?
Family is everything to me. I’m happiest when surrounded by loved ones. I have three beautiful grandchildren I adore spending time with. My husband and I enjoy hanging out by the pool, exploring new restaurants, and attending concerts and movies. Besides that, you’ll find me reading a book or watching TV!
 
What do you love most about Selwyn?
Selwyn is unique in many ways, but I love that teachers and students are happy! I’ve noticed that teachers teach deeply instead of checking off TEKS mandated by public schools. It’s refreshing to see kids excited to learn and explore learning through music, art, and outdoor education.
 
What tip or advice would you give to students?
“If my mind can conceive it, if my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it”. -Muhammad Ali
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