May 09, 2025 -- Every day, in fifth grade teacher Emily McCoy’s classroom at Shady Lane Elementary School, students express their creativity through community centers. These community centers bring McCoy’s class the opportunity to collaborate in groups at various stations focused on themes such as poetry and geometry. Each Friday, her students share what they are most proud of from the week.
That’s where student Choice Jones shines. With a passion for creative writing, Jones eagerly shares her stories with classmates. She credits McCoy with giving her the courage to do so.
“She’s a very nice and gentle teacher,” Jones said. “She lets you take your time to get it.”
McCoy has been teaching at Columbus City Schools for 24 years. Since joining Shady Lane eight years ago, she has made connecting with her students her priority and uses techniques such as community centers and realistic fiction to do so.
“I love the fifth graders,” said McCoy.“They’re independent, they understand my sarcasm, and they are really easy to build relationships with.”
For McCoy, it’s also important for her students to understand the value of empathy in forming connections. She ensures her students know she is not just a teacher but also a human being.
“I am not afraid to talk about my family or cry in front of them just so that they understand that I have feelings and I’m a real person,” McCoy said.
In addition to teaching fifth grade, McCoy serves as the school’s coach for Girls on the Run of Central Ohio. The after-school program opens the door for students to build a strong sense of self and confidence.. At the end of each session, group members run as part of their training for the end of the year 5K.
McCoy, who enjoys running herself, brought the program to the school four years ago and has seen exponential growth over the years. TThe program gives her another opportunity to do what she loves best — building relationships.
“It’s another fun way for me to know the kids at a different level,” McCoy said.
Shady Lane Principal Candace Osborne-Edgerton said McCoy is one of the school’s most passionate teachers when it comes to student success.
“Even now, she has seniors in high school who come back to visit her,” Osborne-Edgerton said. “Just seeing that alone is enough to know that she makes a big impact on students and their futures.”
McCoy’s impact at the school goes far beyond the classroom walls. From fostering creativity through community centers to inspiring confidence through Girls on the Run, she continues to leave a lasting impression on her students — one that extends well into their futures. Whether they’re sharing their stories or lacing up for a 5K, McCoy’s students know they have a champion in their corner, cheering them on every step of the way.
