Nathaniel Clifford is beginning his teaching career close to home as a new English teacher at Allen County-Scottsville High School.
A native of Glasgow, Clifford graduated from Barren County High School in 2018. He continued his education at Campbellsville University, graduating in 2023. While in college, he also pursued his interests in music and theater by completing minors in both subjects. Clifford is currently enrolled at the University of the Cumberlands, where he is working toward a Master of Arts in Teaching.
Although this will be his first year as a classroom teacher, Clifford has been surrounded by education throughout his life. As the son of two educators, he grew up hearing about the rewards, challenges and daily responsibilities that come with teaching.
“Schools have always felt like a second home to me,” Clifford said. “I remember countless conversations around the dinner table about the challenges, successes and everyday realities of teaching.”
Those experiences gave Clifford an appreciation for educators and helped prepare him to begin his own journey in the profession. Clifford said many of his former teachers also played an important role in shaping the person he is today. Their influence went beyond textbooks, assignments and classroom lessons.
“Beyond teaching the curriculum, they shared lessons that have stayed with me long after I left their classrooms—lessons that have influenced me both practically and personally,” Clifford noted.
Clifford hopes to provide that same type of encouragement and guidance for his students.
“If I can be a positive role model who encourages and inspires them to grow into the people they’re meant to become, both inside and outside the classroom, then I will consider that one of my greatest successes as a teacher,” he said.
Students and families can expect Clifford to establish a classroom built around respect, personal growth and high expectations. He wants students to feel comfortable asking questions, expressing their ideas and taking an active role in their education.
“As a first-year teacher, I’m excited to build a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas and developing confidence in their reading and writing skills,” Clifford explained.
Outside the classroom, Clifford enjoys music, theater and movies. A self-described film buff, he tries to watch a wide variety of movies to gain a greater appreciation for cinema.
Clifford is also a sports fan, with baseball ranking as his favorite. His loyalty belongs to Cleveland’s professional teams, including the Guardians, Cavaliers and Browns.
Clifford and his wife, Cora, have two sons, Jonah and Gideon. The family also includes a cat named Dory and a dog named Cleo.
As he enters his first year in education, Clifford is looking forward to forming relationships with his students and helping them strengthen the communication skills they will carry beyond the English classroom.