JACKSON -- Harriet Martin thinks a good educator has to believe in her students to help them acquire a love of learning. Children are unique, so teachers often have to slow down and relate learning to what's important and meaningful to students, said the 26-year teaching veteran.

"I want my students to have the attitude, 'I can do it,' which allows them to develop to their fullest potential," said Martin, a third-grade teacher at Orchard Elementary School. "A classroom must become a team: working, learning and helping one another. Students and teachers must also enjoy what is happening in the classroom for education to have real meaning and success."

Martin uses a variety of activities to teach her students educational concepts. This year, the biggest project her students are enjoying involves the use of computers and books. The Electronic Bookshelf Program encourages students to read books related to their interests and reading levels, then take quizzes on the computer. The students are able to view their progress throughout the year and monitor the number of books they read.

"Putting the 'new' computers with the 'old' books has made the formula for success in reading," she said. "The kids love it."

Martin can often be seen with a camera in hand snapping candid shots of her students. Often called "the camera lady" by students, she said she uses the cameras and videos to make the year more memorable for students.

"I have photos of almost all of the students I've taught in 26 years," she said. "It's enjoyable for the students and me to return and look in my albums and remember all the special moments we've had."

During her senior year in high school, Martin was taken out of class by the principal and asked to take over a first-grade classroom for the remainder of the day. She worked hard but enjoyed reading books, practicing handwriting and teaching Girl Scout songs to the class.

Her desire to teach probably was developed that day.

"My decision to become a teacher may have resulted because someone believed that I could do the job or that I enjoyed this unexpected event," Martin said.