December Teacher of the Month: Tabb Pearson

Tabb Pearson is among a very small group of teachers who has been teaching at Salem since the day the school opened.

“I enjoy having Mr. Pearson as a teacher because he gives you the information you need to pass the quizzes and tests,” said junior Delaney McCoy. “I think that he has a good style of teaching and does a good job of keeping the class on pace for the exam.”

Pearson has made an impact on many of his students and continues to leave his mark whether it’s through his lectures about historic events or his jokes.

“I try to foster a safe and friendly atmosphere in class where I can share stories and help my students explore the history of our country–and do it with a sense of humor,” said Pearson. “I do get a little frustrated sometimes when my students don’t cooperate or don’t take advantage of their true potential. If that’s strict, then I’m guilty as charged.”

Not only has he influenced students, but being a member of the Salem community has provided an opportunity for Pearson to grow as a teacher and as a person.

“SHS has guided me through 31 years of my life. I’ve been blessed to have worked with great students, colleagues, administrators, and parents,” said Pearson. “I’ve coached the golf team for many years and that has given me the chance to share another of my passions besides history…golf.”

While some students argue that Pearson’s lecture style of teaching is “old school,” there are many who find this teaching style effective and enjoyable.

“I think his teaching style is helpful because none of the other teachers I’ve had have taught in a lecture format,” said junior Regean McCoy. “I think having a lecture format is good preparation for college, especially in an AP class.”

Being a teacher for so long requires someone to be adaptive and learn what does and doesn’t work. Person’s success in the classroom comes both from his admirable intellect and his experience.

“I sincerely hope that my students gain some of my passion for America’s past,” said Pearson. “I’ve had many former students come back and say things like, ‘Wow, I sure hated history in high school, but I love it now!’”

Over time, Person has developed some favorite eras to teach.

“I love many periods in US History…American Revolution, Early National, Jacksonian Democracy, Civil War, Progressive Era (TEDDY ROOSEVELT IN 2020!), both World Wars, the 1920s, 1960s, and more modern time periods,” said Pearson.

The most memorable aspect of Pearson’s class students tell us is his punny jokes and vivid storytelling.

“My favorite part about his class is the stories that he tells, and there’s a story for almost any topic you can think of,” said junior Rosemary Nelson. “His former students, family, and friends will never know their impact on our APUSH class. The stories that come straight from history remind us that the people who came before us were human too.”