Tiffany White teaches universal language of music at LCCA
Published 6:19 am Thursday, December 8, 2022
- Lake Charles Charter Academy’s Elementary Music Teacher Tiffany White gets a hug from honor roll student Za’kyree Jones. (Special to the American Press)
“Our dear music teacher Ms. Tyler passed away unexpectedly,” she said. “I then asked the principal at the time, Dr. Pam Quebodeaux, to come volunteer as a parent. Well, she ended up asking me to be a music teacher.”
White didn’t have any previous classroom experience. “I was very apprehensive because I have never taught music in a school setting. I have always taught private lessons, so this was a huge challenge for me.”
She graduated from McNeese State University with a Bachelor of Arts in music.
She also has theology degrees and a Master’s degree in professional counseling from Grand Canyon State University.
Despite her apprehension, White found that education was a good fit for her. “I accepted the position and discovered I have a huge passion for teaching, and I enjoy watching kids grow in music and in life skills.”
White has come to love witnessing the effect that music has on her students. “I enjoy seeing kids discover their passions and skills and I believe that music education plays a huge part in making this happen,” she said. “Music is a universal language, and it helps students to interact with each other without judgment.”
She is not ignorant to the fact that her lessons will leave a lasting impression on the children, and finds joy in that knowledge. “I enjoy creating memories with the kids that they will remember for a lifetime,” she said.
She says music education provides a plethora of benefits for students, stating that it helps them “develop socially, mentally and educationally.”
This development is foundationally beneficial for the community, White said. “Education helps the community by giving everyone a chance to gain knowledge to be successful in life.”
White believes that every student is capable of reaching great heights, and is aware of a teacher’s responsibility to boost them. “I believe that every student has potential to be great,” she said. “It is our job as educators to help that child see their own greatness and maximize their potential to fulfill their life’s purpose.”
Through education, White has learned to maximize her potential as well. In only five years, she has not only discovered a new passion, but also expanded her world view. She attributes this growth to her students. “My students help me to learn that imagination is a gift, and just because you have never seen it done doesn’t mean it can’t be,” she said. “Kids help us to see through a wider lens that is not narrowed by life’s influence.”
She advises all teachers, future and present, to carry that youthful perspective with them throughout their careers.“Make sure to find ways to keep your passions burning for what you do. Always know your why and keep it in sight,” she said.
She continued by explaining that it is vital that educators teach for more than a paycheck. “Don’t just teach to make a living, but let your life be a lesson for others to learn from and grow.”
