Eight grade physical science teacher Elizabeth Proffitt has taught for 19 years. 

For her education, Proffitt originally started at Mercer University and later transferred to the University of Georgia where she received her masters degree in science with a minor in math. 

However, for Proffitt, it wasn’t until a college adviser inspired her to teach that she considered education. She said her adviser told her she would do well  with her personality and abilities.

“It’s funny because originally I planned on majoring in engineering,” Proffitt said. “I have always loved science and math even as a young child so I thought it would be the right path for me.” 

Once beginning her classes for engineering, Proffitt knew something wasn’t right. It was then she decided to change her major to education.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with kids even as I was growing up,” she said. “I even worked with disabled children throughout high school. I knew from an early age working with children was going to be another one of my passions.”

After graduating UGA, Proffitt went on to teach at Porterdale Elementary for five years; working with fourth and fifth graders. 

When Indian Creek Middle School opened in 1997, she transferred and has worked with sixth and eight graders.

“I really don’t have a favorite grade I have taught,” Proffitt continued. “I’m content wherever I am.”

However, Proffitt said she enjoyed working with middle schoolers because of the age group.

“They are at a point in their lives where they aren’t set in their ways yet,” she said. “They can still be molded and aren’t afraid to question things. That’s what I love about my job.”

Proffitt said she is glad she made the decision to teach instead of following her original path.

“I wouldn’t trade this for anything in the world,” she continued. “My favorite part about teaching is building relationships with my students — to get to know them more than just someone in my class. 

Proffitt’s students agree she isn’t just an ordinary teacher. She is a teacher who cares about each and every one of her students.

“She’s like a mom to me,” student Alex Ethridge said. “She’s there for me through whatever I’m going through to help me work through it. She complements me when I’m doing a good job and helps me when I’ve lost my way.”

Morgan Mason said the reason why she loved Proffitt was because she also helps her with her problems. Kylie Bidders likes the way she dresses, and Nolan Cleary simple loves the way she teaches. 

Outside of teaching, Proffitt enjoys spending time with her husband Greg and their two children. 

“My son plays baseball, and my daughter plays softball,” she said. “They defiantly keep us on our toes going around with them.”

She is also involved with First Baptist Church and likes to read and play tennis. 

Proffitt said the reason why she loves science so much is because it’s something that affects the world everyday, and said if she wasn’t a teacher she would still work in the field of science. 

“I always advise my students to never stop questioning things in life,” Proffitt said, “It’s the best advice I can give them as I walk them through science and it’s something that applies for their future as well. I also tell them to never sweat the small stuff. That’s the best advice anyone’s ever given me.”