For Bibiguel Mullen, patience is one of the most important parts of teaching.

Mullen, an ESOL teacher at Alfred duPont Middle School, came to the United States from Kazakhstan in 2004 speaking little English. Her own experience learning a new language now guides the way she supports students in her classroom.

“Every child needs time to process the material,” Mullen said.

After beginning her career as a paraprofessional, Mullen has spent 15 years serving students at the elementary, middle and high school levels. Today, she helps students build confidence, strengthen their language skills and recognize the value of their own voices.

“I love to make a difference in their lives,” Mullen said. “They have a voice.”

Her story reflects the impact educators make every day across Duval County Public Schools.

Duval County Public Schools is hiring teachers and support staff. Walk-in interviews are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville. Learn more and apply at https://www.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/careers.