Hello FamILY,

My name is Amber Pickens, and I am excited to welcome you to our classroom family! This is my 8th year teaching Family and Consumer Sciences at Hurst Junior High in Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD. Teaching is more than a job to me—it is my passion. My goal is to help your child discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop skills they can use for the rest of their lives.

I earned my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Arkansas Tech University and my Master of Science degree from the University of Central Arkansas. I am also proud to be a product of Head Start, a program that supports young children and their families. After college, I returned to Head Start as the Lead Infant and Toddler Teacher, where I worked with seasonal migrant families. That experience taught me the importance of meeting every child where they are and believing in their potential.

In my classroom, I believe in teaching the whole child. Students learn best when they feel safe, respected, and valued. Before I can teach a student's mind, I must first reach their heart. I want every student to know they belong, that they are capable of success, and that they always have someone in their corner.

I believe that education is a partnership between school and home. Our students come from wonderful families, and I look forward to working with you throughout the year. Together, we can help your child grow academically, socially, and personally. My hope is that every student leaves my classroom a little more confident, a little more prepared, and a better version of themselves than they were yesterday.

I also believe that learning is a two-way street. While I teach your child every day, they teach me as well. Their ideas, personalities, and experiences make me a better teacher, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside them.

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or information that would help me better support your child. Open communication is important to me, and I want you to know that we are on the same team.

Thank you for trusting me with your child. It is a privilege to be part of their educational journey. At Hurst Junior High, you are more than students and parents—you are part of our classroom family. I look forward to an amazing year of learning, growth, and making lasting memories together.

You Are a Part of Our Classroom Family