For Shannon Simon, the reward of teaching comes when a child makes a discovery — and the excitement shows.

“You see that light bulb turn on and their eyes just light up and it’s just magic,” she said.

Simon, a kindergarten teacher at J. Allen Axson Elementary School, helps students build confidence and independence through Montessori learning. Children choose their work, explore materials and take an active role in what they learn.

“Children do not need to sit down. They need to move, because movement is learning,” Simon said.

Each activity gives students an opportunity to practice skills, make decisions and discover what they can accomplish. For Simon, that ownership helps nurture a love of learning that reaches beyond the classroom.

“When children are in control of what they want to do, they develop intrinsic motivation,” she said.

Helping children develop that confidence has given Simon a strong sense of purpose in her own work.

“I don’t want to do anything else. I think I am in my dream job,” she said.

Duval County Public Schools invites educators to explore opportunities to help students learn, grow and discover their strengths. For those ready to bring their talents to Team Duval, a classroom could be the beginning of their next chapter.

View available positions and apply at jobs.duvalschools.org.

Walk-in teacher interviews are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at the DCPS District Office, 1701 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207.