 Fifth-grade math teacher Avis McCoy has been a teacher for 26 years. She likes figures – and figurines. Disney ones, to be precise. So here’s a math problem for you: Which is greater, the number of pieces in Ms. McCoy’s collection of Disney figurines, or the number of pre-K and Kindergarten students at Murch combined? To find out the answer, read on.
Where are you from and where did you go to school?
I am a native Washingtonian. I have lived here all my life. I am a product of DC Public Schools. I graduated from Spingarn High School (Go, Greenwaves!) and then attended George Washington University where I double majored in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. I have also taken classes at both Trinity and Catholic Universities.
And how did you decide on teaching?
I don't know if I really decided to become a teacher. It seems as if being a teacher was my "calling." I can't remember a time when I didn't want to be a teacher.
Did you have any other interesting experiences before you became a teacher?
I don't know how interesting it was, but while I was in college I worked in retail. I began in a women's clothing store, I worked in Footlocker and Lady Footlocker. I also worked in the Disney Store for a short time.
When did you make your way from being a Greenwave to a Murch Mustang?
I came to Murch in 1993 after teaching in the Catholic School system for nine years. I was hired as a sixth-grade teacher. Before teaching sixth grade, I spent five years in Kindergarten, two years in second grade, and two years in fourth grade.
What has been your greatest challenge as a teacher?
Making my lessons as interesting and fun as possible. One of the things I enjoy teaching most is solving simple equations (pre-algebra) using a hands-on approach. My classroom is unique because all day long I get to teach my favorite subject, Math. I think it’s awesome that I get to work with all of the fifth-grade students instead of just a small group of 20 kids.
Are your pastimes math-related?
Some. I really enjoy playing poker. Texas Hold'em is my favorite. Unfortunately, I have never actually played in a real game sitting across a table from real people. I play online and video games or against my computer generated "friends." I also love to read. And when I'm not at Murch I love to spend time with friends and family, especially my neices and nephews.
Any other hobbies?
I am a pretty good seamstress. During college and my first few years of teaching I used to make all of my clothes, and I made extra money by making dresses for weddings. I've never made a wedding gown, but I have made hundreds of bridesmaid and flower girls dresses.
Cool. What other things might people not know about you?
I am a Disney fanatic. I collect Disney memorabilia (figurines, plates, lithographs, etc.) and have over 250 Disney figurines.
You know, I would not have guessed that! Finally, how would you finish this sentence: “If I weren’t a teacher, I’d be…”
...a chef. I enjoy cooking. I get great joy from watching someone enjoy my cooking.
-- Donna LaPorte Scharpf
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