Emily Richards

Fifth Grade

Emily Richards has been an educator for thirteen years. She has a bachelor of science in elementary education from University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Emily is married to Mike Richards and has three children, who attend USJ.
 
Her goal as a teacher is "to find the best way to help each student grow and develop academically, emotionally, and socially."  She says, "I believe that children are what we expect from them. They will and can do anything with positive reinforcement and guidance. They will rise to any occasion (or sink to any level), depending upon where you lead them. Each child is a different personality with different needs."
 
When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family, vacationing at the beach, cooking, and reading.  Mrs. Richards also enjoys being involved in her church and community.
 
She likes teaching at USJ for several reasons. "I find the whole atmosphere at USJ appealing. The faculty members and administration are very dedicated and professional.  The facilities are, by far, the best around. I believe in this school and its mission."  It is also home to her as she graduated from Old Hickory Academy in 1985.