Toni Shamley
Challenge… Challenge is a word that motivates and excites Toni Shamley. In today’s educational classroom, too often our students face societal roadblocks which carry over in the classroom and community. As a classroom teacher, Toni Shamley, acknowledged each child’s challenges as an opportunity for growth; constantly seeking ways to motivate, encourage with the highest expectations specific to each child. Her goal was to fill each student’s “toolbox” with ways to problem solve for today and tomorrow. In 1998, Toni Shamley found an opportunity to help fill those toolboxes. Little did she know that this professional opportunity would, also be a personal blessing. It was at the 1998 Great Expectations Summer Institute Methodology Class, that Toni knew she wanted to be a Great Expectations’ Coach to help colleagues have this same experience both personally and in the classroom. Since 1999, Toni has shared her love and enthusiasm for GE with educators as a Great Expectations Summer Institute Methodology Instructor. After 26 years in the public school classroom, Toni joined the Great Expectations family as a Coach in July, 2012. As a Great Expectations Coach, Toni has the opportunity to share her knowledge and cornucopian excitement for the Great Expectations’ philosophy.
Toni is a native Oklahoman. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Special Education at East Central University in Ada in 1983, she earned degrees in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. Toni is an accomplished classroom teacher. She taught pre-school, kindergarten, 1st grade, 5th, grade, 6th grade, and special education throughout her career. As a public school educator, Toni was selected two times by her fellow teachers as Teacher of the Year for Pauls Valley’s Jefferson Early Learning Center. She served as her school’s GE team leader, as well as many committees for her district.
Toni is married to Terry, a retired teacher/coach. They have two sons, Colby and Richard and one daughter in law, Karena. She is active in her church. Toni loves spending time with her family on the farm.