Position: 2nd Grade Teacher

College: California State University, East Bay & National University

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Human Development, Childhood Development Option & pursuing my Masters of Education and California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Email: TaraWharton@rcs.edu 

How did God call you into teaching, and/or what are your professional credentials (or prior work experience)?

From pretending to be the teacher as a little girl with my "classroom" set up in my childhood home driveway for the neighborhood kids to now pursuing my Masters Degree in Education, I have always had a love for teaching. The Lord has always sparked a love in me for children and creating a safe, encouraging and inspiring environment for them to grow. As a former Transitional Kindergarten Teacher and mother of two, I am excited to apply everything I have learned about childhood development and education to my 2nd grade students.  

What motivated you to become a teacher at Redwood Christian?

I attended Redwood Christian School from 7th-10th grade and a piece of my heart has always stayed with them. I cherish the Godly environment Redwood Christian offers families and I wanted to be a part of that ministry. To be able to teach children while being able to minister and pray for them daily, is the absolute dream.

Tell us about your family and how they are looking forward to this new opportunity.

My family and friends are thrilled for me! They know how much I love to teach, and my heart for children. Above all I know my family is so happy to see me doing what the Lord instilled in me long ago.

What is a unique experience, talent or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?

When I'm not teaching children, I run a floral company that I started ten years ago! The Lord has gifted me my business and the ability to see beauty in nature to then design with it. In my classroom I want to create a place where my students feel inspired to create, imagine, see beauty in Gods creation and excel at doing hard things.

Do you have any other hobbies/interests outside of teaching?

I love visiting the ocean with my family and English Golden Retriever, "Luna", baking, cooking, gardening, and doing all kinds of art!

Our tagline is “Inspiring Futures.” How will a time you’ve been inspired shaped your teaching?

I once was offered a trip of a lifetime to design floral for a week in a castle in England and I went. I had the privilege of roaming the dreamiest gardens, designing in a historic library and dining by candlelight the most incredible feasts. I was so inspired by the Lords love and favor over me to have blessed me with that life changing experience, and it changed the way I thought about what God can do in my life and where He can take me, all because I am His daughter. All things are possible through Him and He wants to give those blessings to His children. There are no ceilings for the Lord, and he loves it when we dream! I want my students to dream, and imagine the most amazing futures the Lord can and will give them.