[Story by Emily Hughitt]

With 12 years of teaching, 4 years teaching at Early High School, and a One Act Play state title in the books, Caitlyn Tidwell said her biggest influence for becoming a teacher was her mom, Darlyne Ervin.

“I teach theatre, and my mom was my theatre teacher in high school,” Tidwell said. “I saw how she was able to create a place for everyone to belong, learn, and grow together. In her class and on her stage, whether you were a football player, a band kid, or an academic, whatever your thing was she was able to encourage you and help you be good in the classroom. Not only that, but she would help you shine in areas when maybe you didn’t know you could shine.”

Tidwell added that she loved how her mom and other teachers and professors like Dr. Nancy Joe Humfeld from Howard Payne University created a warm, loving space for their students.

“I wanted to do that for students as well and help them learn and grow,” Tidwell said.

Tidwell added that her favorite part of her job is watching her students shine.

“I love watching them realize that they are gifted, smart and that they can do this.”

Tidwell added that although education can be tough, she is excited to see what the future holds.

“Teachers will never stop pouring our best selves into our students,” said Tidwell. “Also, the young teachers coming into the profession really excite me because I think they are ready to change the world and love on kids. That’s what the future needs.”

Tidwell also has a daughter, Andie Tidwell who was a member of the winning OAP state team.