Clay W. Hildebrand - 6th Grade Math

I grew up in New Port Richey, Florida wearing leg braces for an unusual physical handicap called Legg-Calvé-Perthes.  I was born in the late 1960s, a time when educational modifications for special needs were seldom suggested, much less implemented.  While labeled gifted at an early age, I became apathetic and graduated high school with little or no direction in life.  I went to junior college while working various jobs—server in a restaurant, lawn care, etc., but it was not the life for me.  After serving in the United States Marine Corps from 1991-1995 and traveling to multiple countries, I returned home to complete my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at the University of South Florida.  I taught gifted, special, and regular education students in Tampa for five years before my wife and I relocated to Newnan seven years ago.  I worked for three years with Fulton County Schools teaching math, science, and social studies before coming to Smokey Road Middle School in 2005.  We enjoy living in Coweta County and spend our off-campus time hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. I am also an avid runner and have completed two triathlons, a half-marathon, and am the assistant cross country coach at Newnan High School .

Despite the sense of humor and enthusiasm that I incorporate into my daily lessons, I attempt to remain extremely professional about my chosen career.  When I tell people that I teach middle school math they often look at me with shocked horror and respond, “Why?  I could never do that!” I agree that working with middle school students is often high - stress, it commands attention to detail, and challenges even the most energetic person's cheerfulness.  I explain to all of my students and their parents that I enjoy working in the middle school setting because it is often the last chance educators have to make a significant difference in a student's life.  I hope that this sentiment toward my profession is reflected in the actions I take with my coworkers and students.

Education:
Currently pursing a Doctor of Education, Instructional Leadership, Nova Southeastern University, 2008 – present
Master of Science, Educational Leadership, Nova Southeastern University, 2001
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education, University of South Florida, 1997
Associate in Arts, St. Petersburg Junior College , 1990

Professional Experience:
Smokey Road Middle School , Newnan , GA , 2005 - present
E.C. West Elementary, Fairburn, GA, 2002-2005
Orange Grove Middle Magnet School of Performing Arts, Tampa, FL, 1998-2002
Lewis Elementary School, Temple Terrace, FL, 1997-1998