GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- For 18 years, Congress Elementary fifth-grade teacher Charity Webbley has dedicated herself to helping scholars grow academically, socially and emotionally while building a classroom culture rooted in love, respect and perseverance.
“In my 18 years as a teacher with GRPS, I most enjoy building meaningful relationships with my students and creating a classroom environment where every child feels safe, respected, empowered, and loved,” Webbley said. “Teaching is truly my calling, my passion, and my heart.”
She works to motivate scholars to embrace challenges, develop a growth mindset, and believe in their abilities.
“I love motivating students, encouraging creativity and curiosity for learning, and helping them realize they are capable of doing hard things through perseverance and a growth mindset,” she said.
Some of the most meaningful moments come when students begin to see their own potential.
“I love the ‘ah ha’ or lightbulb moments when learning clicks for students, but most importantly, I love when students begin to feel capable and motivated to persevere through difficult challenges,” she said. “That is where true character deepens and develops.”
Webbley says she chose to work at Congress Elementary because of its strong sense of community.
“I value being part of an educational culture that prioritizes equity, relationships, opportunity, and the success of every child,” she said. “I especially love the Congress community and all the parents, families, teachers, staff, volunteer supporters, and community members who continually show up for ‘our kids. It is such a blessing to work alongside people who are dedicated, compassionate, and committed to helping students grow.”
She hopes her scholars leave her classroom with confidence.
“I hope the impact I make is helping students know they are deeply valued, capable, and loved,” she said. “I strive to lead with compassion, grace, empathy, and selflessness while also providing the ‘tough love’ needed to help students grow into successful and confident individuals.”
One message she shares with scholars reflects the lasting relationships she hopes to build long after they leave her classroom.
“I often tell my students, ‘Once you’re one of my kiddos, you’re always one of my kiddos,’ because I want every child to know they will always have someone cheering them on, believing in them, and loving them,” Webbley said.