Stephanie Roadcap
Fifth Grade Science Teacher, Redwater Intermediate School
Stephanie Roadcap is in her fourteenth year of teaching and currently serves as a fifth-grade science teacher at Redwater Intermediate School. “I love that Redwater Intermediate has a strong sense of community and support from both staff and administration. It truly feels like a family, where everyone works together to do what’s best for the kids. I always feel encouraged to try new ideas and grow as an educator,” she says.
Stephanie was a timid student growing up and rarely spoke in class unless she felt really comfortable. “One of my first-day traditions as a teacher is being honest with my students and letting them know that I get nervous too! Having been a shy student myself, I know how overwhelming the first day can feel, so I focus on helping everyone feel at ease. We spend the first few days building relationships, learning about each other, and creating a classroom environment where every student feels safe, seen, and supported.” Stephanie says.
During her school years, the classes she remembers most were those where the teachers created a safe and welcoming space and encouraged everyone’s voice. “Those experiences shaped the way I run my classroom today. I want every student to feel seen, heard, and supported,” Stephanie says. “I’ve always loved working with kids, but what sparked my passion for teaching was watching my children learn and grow. Seeing their excitement when they discovered something new made me want to create that same joy in a classroom. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a teacher.”
After high school, Stephanie earned an Associate of Arts in Business from Tyler Junior College and then a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas at Tyler. Later, she followed her heart into education and completed the alternative teaching certification program through Texas Teachers. Her current teaching certifications are Generalist EC–6, Math 4–8, and ESL Supplemental K–12. “Even though I didn’t start in education, I know I ended up exactly where I belong.
I just completed my 14th year teaching. I have been at Redwater Intermediate for 7 of those years!” Stephanie exclaims. “I want to teach because I truly believe in the power of education to change lives. What drives me is seeing students grow in confidence, take ownership of their learning, and discover their full potential. There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve helped a child believe in themselves.”
Stephanie believes in creating an environment where diverse learners can come together and feel comfortable. “I start by getting to know my students’ strengths, challenges, and learning styles, so I can tailor instruction to meet their needs. I use a mix of small groups, hands-on activities, peer tutoring, and flexible assignments to help each student engage with the material in a way that works for them,” she says.
Stephanie’s commitment to building a positive and inclusive classroom environment begins on the first day of school. “I focus on building strong relationships with my students from day one, so they know they’re valued and respected. I utilize team-building activities, student voice and choice, and clear expectations to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels a sense of belonging. When students feel connected and supported, they’re more willing to take risks and grow,” Stephanie says.
Stephanie describes her teaching style as hands-on, student-centered, and relationship-driven. She loves creating engaging, real-world learning experiences where students feel safe taking risks, asking questions, and exploring. Her goal is to empower every student to take ownership of their learning and see themselves as capable, curious thinkers. “I make connections by taking the time to try to really get to know each student, their interests, strengths, and challenges. I listen closely, show genuine care, and create a classroom environment where every student feels valued and safe. Building trust takes time, but it’s the foundation for helping students succeed both academically and personally,” Stephanie says.
Even though Stephanie has many years of experience as an educator, she still has professional goals she seeks to achieve. “My professional goals include continuing to grow as an educator by learning new strategies, collaborating with peers, and bringing innovative, engaging lessons to my students. Most of all, I want to keep making a positive impact in the lives of kids every single day,” Stephanie says.
Did you know this about Stephanie?
She has been married to her husband, Keith, for seven years, and together they have six amazing children, ranging in age from 18 months to 19 years old. Their children are very active in various school activities, including football, cross-country, powerlifting, tennis, track, robotics, and e-sports. Stephanie spends much of her free time attending their events and cheering them on.
She knows all the lyrics to Hillsong Worship’s song, “Who You Say I Am”.
Her must-have smartphone apps include Facebook to stay connected, Libby for reading e-books, RightNow Media for Bible study, and Spotify to enjoy music throughout the day. Professionally, she relies on Google Classroom to organize lessons and Education Galaxy to make learning fun and interactive for her students.
If Stephanie could take her students on a field trip anywhere in the world, it would be to the Grand Canyon. It’s a place she longs to visit, and she knows many of her students haven’t had the chance to see it. In fifth-grade science, students learn about canyons and how they’re formed, so seeing the Grand Canyon in person would bring those lessons to life. When students look at pictures and videos, they are amazed by the canyon’s size, and experiencing it firsthand would be unforgettable.
Stephanie’s morning routine starts with a couple of cups of coffee to get her going. On the drive to school, she listens to Christian worship music to help clear her mind and give her a positive outlook for the day. Once she is at school, her favorite way to start the day is by greeting her students at the door and chatting with them as they get settled. It sets a positive tone and helps everyone start the day feeling connected and ready to learn.
Students might be surprised to learn that Stephanie grew up on a dairy farm! “I have so many great memories of being outside, caring for animals, and learning how to garden. I still love gardening today, especially when my whole family is outside working together, and I enjoy cooking with what we grow,” she says.