News

Cathy Essley has been selected as the 2024-2025 Eliot Elementary Teacher of the Year!

Cathy joined Team Tulsa in 2000. She has taught many grade levels during that time -- and even taught internationally. She currently teaches pre-K and loves it.

We asked Cathy a few questions to get to know more about her and her time at Tulsa Public Schools.

What does your job entail?

As a pre-K teacher, my duties include incorporating play, hands on activities, songs, games, and art in our daily routine, while learning to read, write, count, and share. We play and have fun every day! I am enjoying our 4-5 year olds. They are amazing young people! 

Why did you want to work in education?

Honestly, education was not my first career choice. I was in management and marketing for years.  Sadly, life changing circumstances altered my life and career. My son died. I left my full-time job and began volunteering at my daughter's school — Eliot Elementary. This opened my eyes to the world of education and what is truly important inside the school building: our children. I began my teaching career hoping to inspire parents to spend quality time with their children, which is what I try to do every day as a teacher.   

What has your time at TPS been like?

Teaching at TPS has led to invaluable experiences and has created lasting relationships with colleagues, students and their families. I find joy in working with my colleagues and often find time for a laugh or two throughout the day. I have enjoyed the connections between the classroom and the larger community by including volunteers in the classroom or engaging in a philanthropic, community activity which involves students and their families. Unexpected, but deeply valued relationships with students/families over the years have brought much joy to my life. This experience is invaluable, especially as I strive to make a lasting impact on students' lives, as they do mine.  

What are you passionate about outside of work?

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my daughter's kids. I also enjoy cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, scuba diving, traveling, hiking, and reading. I volunteer in the community and encourage others to join me. 

Is there anything else you would like everyone to know?

I am honored to be chosen as Teacher of the Year by the Eliot community. I know the work ethic, determination and drive of the teachers in our building is unparalleled, and easily any teacher in our building is Teacher of the Year as they set a standard that can not easily be surpassed—every day.