TOTY Spotlight: Erica Johnston

Throughout the month of October and November, we will be introducing you to the 2023-2024 Glynn County Teachers of the Year.

Erica Johnston was named Teacher of the Year at Brunswick High. She has taught 6th- and 7th-grade Science, 9th- and 10th-grade Biology, and 10th- through 12th-grade AP Biology and Zoology.

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Family: Two sons, both graduates of Brunswick High School and products of the Glynn County School System.  Brody Dutka (class of 2019) currently in his senior year at Mercer University and  Brett Dutka (class of 2022) currently in his freshman year at Kennesaw State University.  
 
Two dogs: Fergie Bacon and Ziva.  
 
One cat: Uzzi.  
 
A multitude of amazing family and friends!

Who is your role model? My mother Gretchen Johnston is my role model.  She has taught me to be strong and independent, yet caring and compassionate, how to be successful and happy, yet humble and grounded.  
 
What book has most influenced you? I am an avid reader, and this is an extremely hard question to answer for me. I like stories of real people dealing with real life situations and persevering. When I was young, Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Patterson and more recently The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay are some of my favorites. 

What is your greatest teaching memory? My greatest teaching memory is when the students are doing a lab and having fun and seeing the light bulb go off that they are actually learning as well. I get to make these memories often! 

What is your favorite quote or personal motto? If there’s a will, there’s a way. If there’s a quizlet, there’s an A.
 
What is a fact about you that most people don't know? I love hip-hop/rap music! Music defines moments in my life!
 
Any hidden talents or hobbies? I love to travel and my goal in life is to start visiting all the National Parks!