Annslee Bishop, 4th grade teacher at Peachtree City Elementary, loves helping students learn how to learn and setting them on a successful path in life. 

“I believe that teaching truly is a calling and that every teacher is in a classroom because that’s where they’re supposed to be and that’s where their influence is supposed to be,” said Bishop. “I think it’s really special to be able to have that kind of influence on a child, to be able to teach them about friendships, to be able to teach them about responsibility, to teach them to have ownership over their own learning, and that’s just a really cool role to be able to play in a child’s life.” 

Bishop practices what she preaches, even currently pursuing a doctorate. 

“Lifelong learning is incredibly important to me,” she said. “If you’re a kid that loves learning, then why not stay for the next 30 years and become a teacher, as well. I truly feel like I’m learning every day, whether it’s about new practices or legislation.” 

A graduate of Starr’s Mill High, Bishop always felt called to become an educator. Some of her earliest memories are of helping her mother, Lori Tokar, when she was a teacher at Peeples Elementary. She would help her mother, now the new K-5 English Language Arts Coordinator for the district, unpack folders and make lunch choices with students when she was younger, then she would assist with mini-lessons as she got older. 

“I loved learning how to teach from my mom the most,” said Bishop. “She is passionate about building relationships and getting to know their families.” 

Bishop believes that every moment teaching needs to be intentional. The small moments don’t go unnoticed by students, and they go a long way towards building a deeper connection. 

“I hope that they come out of this classroom knowing that I believe in them. I hope that they believe in themselves, that they’re confident, that they know they can tackle challenges,” she said. “I want you to believe in yourself, know that I’m behind you, and go forth into the world and do great things.” 

“The Honor Role,” an official podcast for Fayette County Public Schools, features employees, rotating through key stakeholders, including teachers, staff, nurses, custodians, cafeteria workers, and bus drivers. Join us as we dive in and learn about their journeys, their inspirations, and their whys.

Episodes are available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and promoted on the social media channels of Fayette County Public Schools.

Episodes will also be available here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2200811.