From student to teacher: decatur school alumna returns to shape young minds
A familiar face is stepping back into the classroom – and it’s a journey years in the making.
Tayara wallin-damon, once a student at the international community school in decatur, is poised to become a teacher at the very institution that fostered her passion for global understanding.
The school, a vibrant hub just minutes from Clarkston, Georgia – often hailed as one of the most diverse square miles in the nation – has uniquely shaped her perspective. Wallin-Damon, currently pursuing her state certification at Georgia State University, recalls countless hours spent alongside students from dozens of countries, each speaking one of over 100 languages. That experience ignited a spark, and now, she’s determined to cultivate that same sense of connection and inclusivity for the next generation.
“I remember helping tutor them, just trying to ease them into the school environment,” she recounted, her voice laced with genuine enthusiasm. “It truly clicked – I realized this was what I wanted to do.”
But it wasn’t just the sheer diversity that resonated with her. The dedication of her own teachers left an indelible mark. “I had so many wonderful teachers who inspired me,” Wallin-Damon explained. “They created a truly welcoming space, a place where students felt safe and supported.”
Her colleagues echo that sentiment. “She has an innate ability to connect with the children,” stated Laurie Rohm, a third-grade teacher. “She understands their individual needs, and she fosters a sense of belonging – something incredibly crucial in an environment as diverse as ours.”
Students themselves recognize Wallin-Damon’s compassionate approach. “She’d always let us try things on our own first,” said Beau Cole, a third-grader. “And if we needed help, she was right there, listening and offering solutions.” Arielle England added, “Even when I’m having a bad day, she takes the time to listen and helps me work through it. It’s amazing.”
Wallin-Damon’s vision extends beyond academics. “I want to build a community,” she emphasized. “I want my students to know they’re supported, that I’m excited to learn from them, too. It’s about creating a home away from home, right here where my own journey began.” She’s aiming to establish a truly nurturing environment—a space where young minds feel empowered and ready to embrace the world.
Graduating in May, she’s scheduled to return in the fall, not as a student, but as a full-time educator. And she’s not simply returning to a job; she's returning to a calling.