Atlanta Elementary School

For most teachers, the first year in the classroom is a unique blend of excitement, nerves, and endless learning. For Heather Hall and her daughter, Hailie Mitchell, this experience holds an added significance: they are beginning their teaching careers together at Atlanta Elementary School.

Their shared journey started long before they stepped into their classrooms. Both graduated on May 11, 2024—Hailie from Texas A&M University-Texarkana and Heather from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Despite attending different institutions, their graduations perfectly aligned. Hailie walked across the stage at 9 a.m., and Heather followed at 2 p.m., allowing the two to cheer each other on as they celebrated this milestone together.

Like many parents, Heather focused on raising her children before pursuing her career.

“To see her finally be able to do something for her made me proud of her,” Hailie said. “Oftentimes, I rooted for her first before I rooted for myself. When it came time to graduate, I always thought of her graduation being more important. She achieved more and went through more in my eyes.”

Now, both are teaching at Atlanta Elementary School. They often carpool to school, alternating who drives, and while they rarely see each other during the school day, the shared experience of navigating their first year as teachers has brought them closer than ever.

“When your child starts their career, you don’t normally get to be a part of that experience,” Heather said. “I got the privilege of helping her decorate her first classroom, teacher orientation together, and getting our first roster of students together.” 

Heather is no stranger to AES, having worked there as a paraprofessional last year.

“During my year as a paraprofessional, I soaked in all the great classroom management tips and organizational ideas I could while in the classrooms of our great teachers,” Heather said. “I was able to build relationships and went into this school year knowing I could go to anyone on this campus, and they would help me with whatever I need.” 

The first year of teaching is full of challenges, but for Hailie and Heather, the journey has been marked by mutual support and pride. 

“The first year is one that goes through many highs and many lows; being able to relate to my mom in those moments makes them easy,” Hailie said. “While our journey is obviously nowhere close to being done, it has been one of the greatest experiences one could go through with their mother.