Candace Torrence

A Teach in the Peach Ambassador

  • School District: Marietta City Schools
  • Grade Level: K-5
  • Content: Gifted
  • Position: Lead Gifted Teacher
  • RESA Region: Metro
  • Number of years teaching: 17

Candace Torrence is a gifted education teacher at A.L. Burruss Elementary in Marietta City Schools. She is the wife of Rashad Torrence and proud mother of Rashad II, Rhian, and Reese. Inspired by her grandmother, Ezella Holcomb, and aunt, Annie L. Ruggs, Candace is passionate about building meaningful relationships, serving her community, and empowering every student to reach their fullest potential.

“If you’re considering becoming a teacher, remember that teaching is more than delivering lessons—it’s about believing in children, even before they believe in themselves. Every day, you have the opportunity to encourage, inspire, and help students discover their potential. As educator Todd Whitaker reminds us: “Great teachers don’t have great students. They have students who become great because they have great teachers.” And never lose sight of this simple but powerful truth: “Value every child, every day.” When students know they are seen, heard, and valued, they are more willing to take risks, persevere through challenges, and achieve beyond what they thought possible. Teaching isn’t always easy, but the relationships you build and the lives you impact make it one of the most rewarding professions. If you enter this profession with a heart that values every child, every day, you’ll never underestimate the difference you can make.
“Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”— Theodore Roosevelt As you begin your teaching journey, remember that your greatest lesson may never come from a textbook. Build relationships first. Learn your students’ stories, celebrate their successes, and support them through their struggles. The curriculum is important, but connection is what makes learning possible. Every child wants to feel seen, heard, and valued. When you lead with compassion, consistency, and high expectations, you’ll create a classroom where students don’t just learn—they thrive. Years from now, they may not remember every lesson you taught, but they will always remember how you made them feel.
I choose to stay in education because I believe there is no greater investment than investing in children. Every day is an opportunity to inspire confidence, ignite curiosity, and help students realize their potential. While the work is challenging, knowing that I can positively impact a child’s life makes it incredibly rewarding. Education reaches far beyond the classroom. When we empower students, we strengthen families, enrich communities, and shape future leaders. By valuing every child, every day, we create a ripple effect that extends across generations, making our schools—and our communities—better places for everyone.
I chose to work in an urban school district because it reflects my experiences throughout school and my passion for serving diverse communities. I believe every student deserves access to high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Traditional – Career Changer
Back to All Ambassadors

Site Search

2,026 students commit to teaching profession at second annual Teach in the Peach Statewide Educator Signing Day

Signing Day