Melanie Cole

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?
I graduated from La Roche College in 2006 with an Elementary Education and Special Education degree. I started my career at the Wesley Spectrum Institute before receiving the position at Slippery Rock High School. I became highly qualified in High School Mathematics content and taught learning support Mathematics 9-12th for 8 years. During my employment at Slippery Rock High School, I was able to attend Slippery Rock University’s online programs to receive my Master's Degree in Special Education, as well as School Supervision. I have also received my autism certificate from SRU. Currently, I am the transition coordinator for the Slippery Rock School District.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The students and the relationships that I am able to build with them is the most rewarding aspect of my job. I have been given the opportunity to interact with our student body on a variety of different levels. To observe a student over four years, watching them grow and enrich to their potential is tremendously gratifying.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
Enrich yourself in every opportunity. One thing that has escalated my educational career is the experiences that I have had along the way. Be Mindful. Be Interested. Be Engaged!

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
Dr. Joseph Merhaut, one of my SRU professors, and former high school principal of mine is one of the most influential people I know. I have had the opportunity to not only take his online curriculums but also have heard him speak numerous times. Dr. Merhaut is always willing to help when necessary and offer good advice when needed.

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher is someone that loves their career. Teachers that come into their school buildings, with smiles on their faces, change the school climate, and make a difference to their students. One of my favorite quotes is “Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Great teachers care about ALL of their students. 

Allison Friedsam

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?
I started SRU in Fall 2013 and graduated in May 2017. I am currently attending SRU online graduate school for a Master’s Degree in Education through the Reading Specialist and Instructional Coaching Program with a Literacy Endorsement. I recently began my first teaching job at Benjamin Stoddert Middle School which is part of the Charles County Public School System in Maryland.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
My favorite and most rewarding part of the job is knowing that I am making a positive impact on students’ lives. I love that I am able to create this environment where students feel safe, eager to learn, and like they matter.


What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
I would advise students to take advantage of every opportunity! Try as hard as you can to never miss a workshop or conference. The knowledge you gain from attending is so much better than second-hand information from a friend or peer. The connections and friendships made by attending these events last far longer than you would expect. Don't be afraid to venture outside of your comfort zone.

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
Making the choice to live in the Education LLC freshman year was the best choice I could have made. I met so many people who shared the same passion for education and teaching that I had. Not all of the people on my floor were my "best friends," but we have all stayed in touch throughout the rest of college and now in the real world. Even though we all live all over the place, we still keep tabs on each other and root for each other's success.

What makes a great teacher?
The best teachers are made of dedication inside and out. All of the hours, conferences, and bad days are completely worth it when you love your job.

Hayley Filegar

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?
I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Slippery Rock University in May of 2015 with degrees in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4) and Special Education (K-8). I am a certified teacher in Pennsylvania. However, after graduation, I moved to Durham, North Carolina where I am employed as a 3rd grade teacher. During my first year of teaching, I also taught 3rd grade, but had the amazing opportunity during my second year to loop up to 4th grade with my class! While I love being back in 3rd grade, looping was such an incredible experience.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding parts of my job are the connections and relationships that I am privileged to form with my students, staff, and families. Our school community is close-knit, inclusive, and honestly feels like a huge family! I love that my students from the past two years still stop in my classroom to say hello before their day starts. So much of teaching is about relationships, and I absolutely love watching my students grow academically and socially throughout the school year and even further down the road. Every student that I teach leaves a mark, and as a teacher, I hope to leave something positive with every single student who walks through my classroom door.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
Slippery Rock University offers SO many amazing opportunities for professional growth and enrichment. Take advantage of these! I was fortunate enough to travel abroad and visit Sweden and Ireland through the education department. We visited schools, talked to stakeholders, and engaged with students from these countries. Clubs are another great way to grow professionally during your time at Slippery Rock. I was a member of Council of Exceptional Children and the Early Childhood Club, and both provided many opportunities to volunteer and work with children. Spend as much time classrooms and working with children as you possibly can! Any experience is valuable experience. Slippery Rock also offers incredible events such as Backpacks to Briefcases for students and SRU alumni to meet and network with each other. Slippery Rock graduates are everywhere, and networking can be such a great way to get your foot in the door! I also spent two years as a Community Assistant in the dorms with ResLife, which was such an enriching experience for me and truly helped me grow as a leader. Slippery Rock has SO many opportunities, take advantage of them and continue to grow!

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
All of my professors in the education department were inspiring, helpful, and dedicated professionals. I really felt like I was valued as a student, and that when I needed assistance, it was available. However, there is one particular professor that helped guide me throughout my experience at Slippery Rock, and is still offering guidance to this day. Dr. Linda Zane was one of my very first professors at Slippery Rock, and her personal experience and wealth of knowledge about early childhood education was inspiring to me from day one. When I took Dr. Zane’s ECE Theory class, we studied education in different countries, settings, and spaces. We learned about educational practices in Sweden, and my class jokingly begged her to take us there. Fast forward to the next spring, and we were taking the first education department trip to Sweden! It was an unbelievable experience, observing and witnessing firsthand educational practices that we had learned about and studied with Dr. Zane. To this day, Dr. Zane is someone who I look up to, and often go to for professional advice or to share my own experiences as a teacher. The faculty in the education department at Slippery Rock are high-quality, and committed to helping you succeed.

What makes a great teacher?
In my opinion, passion, dedication, flexibility and the ability to build positive relationships shape a great teacher. Teaching is a difficult profession, but being dedicated and having a true passion for making a difference in the life of children makes every bit of hardship worth it. As teachers, we must always be flexible. Educational practices, policies, and expectations are changing constantly, and so are the needs of students. What works one day might not the next. As teachers, we should always be ready to change our practices and our mindsets to ensure the success of every single student. Lastly, I believe that a great teacher is able to form positive and meaningful relationships with every single student. We want our students to become lifelong learners, and I believe that it is equally important for us to also be lifelong learners and role models for our students.

John Vannoy

What is your educational background from SRU and what positions have you held?
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Slippery Rock University. I began my teaching career in the Sharon City School District where I served as a social studies teacher, athletic director, and assistant principal. I then went to Sharpsville as the middle school principal, transitioned to the Director of Student Services, and am currently the Acting Superintendent. 

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is the interactions with our staff and students. We are blessed to have excellent staff at all levels and a tremendous student body. Our educational community is also extremely passionate about all facets of our school district.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
My advice to students not only in the College of Education but the SRU students in general would be to set out on a daily basis to set yourself apart from those people that you will ultimately compete against for jobs. Every day and each experience is of the upmost importance in building one’s portfolio and job related experiences. I would also encourage them to be lifelong learners.

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
My SRU experiences have covered several generations. Both my wife and I attended SRU. Our oldest son Matthew is a SRU graduate, and our youngest son Michael will graduate this coming spring. 

Two individuals stand out in helping make Slippery Rock a great education experience. One is from my time as a student and one is someone that I currently interact with on a professional level. Dr. Richard von Mayrhauser was one of my history professors. He helped to foster both my love of history and aspirations of being a future teacher. The other is Dr. Herb Hunt. Dr. Hunt served as my mentor when I began as an administrator. I continue to benefit from Dr. Hunt’s expertise through his HH Education Events.

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher needs to have the passion to want to work with children regardless of age. The impact of great teachers extend way beyond the classroom walls. They are individuals who truly leave an indelible impression on the lives of their students. Great teachers do what they do because of their commitment to the world of education. The mantra of a great teacher is that teaching is not a job, but rather one’s life passion.

Regan Weldon

What is your educational background from SRU and where do you work?
-M.Ed in Special Education and Special Education Supervisory Certification (SRU)
-Director of Special Education through Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
I love knowing that I make a difference in the lives of students with special needs.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
For Education Majors: Only people who have a true passion for teaching kids and can demonstrate true caring and patience for kids should become a teacher. If you don’t have those things, switch majors immediately! Also, learn as much as you can regarding differentiated instructional techniques, including how to teach online. Gain as much experience as you can with kids and teaching. Volunteer if you’re not getting enough face-to-face time with kids. All kids are unique and deserve teachers who are experts in childhood development so that the students and teachers are not met with frustration in this challenging endeavor of education.

For all SRU Majors: College is a unique part of your life. Embrace all that it has to offer…..in moderation!

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
I loved getting my Master's as part of a cohort of educators. It gave me the opportunity to interact with my teacher colleagues and gain insight from their experiences. It allowed us to learn from and challenge one another.

Carly Nalepa

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?
I graduated from Slippery Rock University in December of 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education PreK-4. I currently teach 1st grade in Polk County, Florida. I was hired mid-year in January 2017, so this is my second year at Scott Lake Elementary School.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
This is the most rewarding job for so many reason. Every day you get to watch the "light bulb" go off on your students while they are learning how to become better readers, writers, mathematicians, and scientists. How lucky are we as teachers to be able to sculpt the minds of the future? To me, one the of most rewarding parts is when a student looks at you with the biggest smile after working out a tough problem and shouts “I did it!!”

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
If you are currently enrolled in the teacher program, just know it is the best decision you will ever make! Listen to everything your professors say. They are experts and they are sharing their knowledge with us, so take advantage of them! Plan ahead! Use your curriculum map to plan each semester. This will help you stay focused on your end goal! When you do your field work and are out in the schools be proud to be a Slippery Rock student! Make connections, smile, and be friendly to everybody!

My biggest advice to all SRU students is to appreciate every little moment! Not to sound cliché, but your time here will truly be the best years of your life! Never say no to a good opportunity and take advantage of everything SRU has to offer. If you are having a rough day, I suggest getting a breakfast bowl from Elia in Weisenfluh. They were my go-to!

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
One experience for me that has really stuck with me is the entire student teaching process. I learned so much being hands-on in the school. I was placed at such a wonderful school with so many awesome teachers, many of which were SRU alumni. My advisor for student teaching was Dr. Anne Slanina. She was my lifesaver in many ways. We bonded over our common hometown of Youngstown, Ohio. She is so passionate about helping teacher candidates.

Another faculty member that greatly impacted me was Dr. Williams. She was my academic advisor. Every time I walked into her office she greeted me by my name and knew exactly where we left off from our previous meetings. She always knew where I stood academically and would stay after hours to answer my questions and motivate me to keep moving forward.

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher is motivated by children. A great teacher not only cares about students academically, but also cares about their well-being. A great teacher is a role model. A great teacher learns from their mistakes, is flexible, and is always learning new things. They hold their students to a high standard because they know that every child is capable of AMAZING things.

William Klumph

 

What has been your experience as a professional teacher?
I worked as a substitute teacher for a little over a year. I loved it, and the students I taught responded to me in a positive manner no matter which school district I worked in.

When I walked into the classroom for the first time, I felt at home -- as if this was where I needed to be. The staff at the eight or nine different schools I worked in were professional and helpful.

What is one positive experience that you had with a student?
There was an opening for a history teacher at one school I worked in. Several students wrote a petition and circulated it on my behalf. I did not ask them to do that. At another school, a teacher told the student she would not be there the next day. The students wanted to know who the substitute teacher would be. The teacher told them I would be the substitute, and the students started to cheer. When the teacher asked them why they were cheering, they said, “We just like him.”

What advice would you give current college students who are preparing to be teachers?
Current education students must have knowledge of the subjects they will be teaching and a love for working with young people. They have to be able to distinguish if their position as a teacher is a job, or a calling."

What is one thing you learned from Slippery rock University’s teacher preparation program that you used in your profession?
Get the student involved in what you are teaching. Have them participate in various activities, as well as competition among classroom groups.

What attracted you to teaching?
My sister, my youngest brother, and his wife were all teachers. This along with my desire to help others grow and expand their horizons led me to this choice.

What makes a great teacher?
The ability to hold the students' attention and the ability to make them want to know more.

Megan Jackson

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?
I attended Slippery Rock University and dual majored in Early Child Education and Special Education. I graduated Summa Cum Laude in May of 2017 with a B.S. in Education. I hold teaching certificates for Pennsylvania (Early Childhood PreK-4 and Special Education K-8) and Maryland (Elementary PreK-3 and Special Education Infant-3). After graduation, I started substitute teaching in Butler Area School District in PA. In September, I moved to Maryland and started teaching at Folger McKinsey Elementary School in Anne Arundel County. I teach Resource Special Education (learning support) for grades 1 and 3.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is building relationships with the staff and students. The staff at my school works as a team and provides support for each other in all that we do. As a first year teacher, it’s really comforting to be in such a great school!

I also have the pleasure of working with two different grades in three classrooms throughout the day, in addition to times that I pull out a group of students. It’s awesome getting to know each student on an individual basis and seeing their growth throughout the year already. The best moments are when students have been struggling and working hard on a certain assignment or task and they finally get it; they are so proud and excited to show teachers their accomplishments. I love that we are continuously helping students grow in their academics, as well as people in our society. There is no other profession I’d rather be in!

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?
SRU is one of the best schools to go to for an education degree. The program, professors and enrichment opportunities are phenomenal and I truly learned so much. With that being said, I would tell students currently in the program to take advantage of as many of those opportunities as they can. I was able to travel abroad to Sweden and Italy with students and professors from the Education department and learn about education in different countries. There are also many clubs and activities, such as National Science Teachers Association and Early Childhood Club that provide great ways to work with students. As an education student at SRU, I wanted to be in the classroom as much as possible. Through clubs, studying abroad, field, and student teaching experiences, I felt truly prepared to become a teacher. Although it may seem overwhelming at times, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, ask questions, and get experience!

Not only is it important to gain educational experience through clubs, but it is also important to join other clubs to become a well-rounded person. My favorite club at SRU was being a part of the University Program Board. I was a member my sophomore and senior year and served as the Director of Community Service during my junior year. The opportunities for growth, leadership and friendship were endless and I would highly recommend anyone to join!

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.
All of the professors I had in the education department were of high quality. There is a take-away from each class, whether it be a piece of advice or information that I remember from each class and professor. However, there are two professors that were my go-to whenever I had questions.

Dr. Snyder was my FYRST Seminar and Science Methods professor and also the advisor for NSTA. The experiences and expertise that he shared with his students over my years at SRU were unparalleled. I always felt comfortable going to his office to ask questions or get guidance.

I did a tutoring program with Dr. Lynch during my freshman year, and then he was my professor for Positive Behavior Strategies during my junior year. He had an unforgettable way of conveying information, and I use his strategies and advice in my teaching every day. He was also a great support in directing my educational career, saying that my time at SRU could be "whatever I wanted it to be."

What makes a great teacher?
There are many things that shape a great teacher, but the number one quality is passion. Those who have a true passion for teaching and working with kids make the greatest differences in children’s lives. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work with kids when I “grew up”, but it wasn’t until I helped teach a preschool class during my senior year of high school that I knew I was destined to become a teacher. That natural instinct, coupled with immense patience, creativity, and flexibility make for a great teacher. One of my favorite quotes is, “Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning” and I think that speaks significantly for teaching as a profession.

Matt Vannoy

 

Where has your career trajectory been like? What is your position now?

I am currently an assistant principal at my alma mater, Sharon Middle/High School in Sharon, PA. I supervise our middle school grades in addition to other responsibilities. After graduating Summa cum Laude with a degree in Secondary Education from SRU in May of 2009, I spent the first 8 years of my career as a Social Studies teacher and athletic director in two different Pennsylvania districts. I also consult with organizations on a range of topics and sit on several boards and committees for the City of Sharon and other Mercer County organizations. I did graduate work in Special Education at SRU and completed my M. Ed at Westminster College.

What have you done particularly well as an educator?

As an educator, I have always done a nice job of being involved in the school and greater community. This has allowed me to develop positive relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders. I also believe I have done a good job of developing a positive culture of trust, success, caring and improvement in all my positions whether it be in the classroom, running an athletic department, or running a building. I believe that it takes a team to build a great school. When something extra needs to be done, if you can do it, you do it.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in SRU’s teacher preparation program – and to college students in general?

In the past, I have spoken at SRU to aspiring teachers and rising high school seniors who were interested in SRU's College of Education and my advice has always been to be involved in the university at large as much as possible and to develop relationships with as many people as you can whether it be professors, support staff, or fellow students. At SRU, I was a Community Assistant and involved in a number of other activities. I rarely passed up an opportunity to do something extra or see a guest speaker on campus. All of these experiences are still beneficial to me. A few quick tips:

• Get to know your professors. A professor once told me that nothing bad ever came from stopping by a professor's office during office hours. That is correct! Any extra interactions you can have will lead to extra advice, opportunities, and knowledge that will benefit you in the long run professionally and personally.
• "Get on the bus." This is a saying from one of my former professors. The bus is leaving with or without you every day, so you might as well get on and see where it takes you. Otherwise, you will just be stuck at the station. This is not in reference to the happy bus! Rather, it is a reference to taking advantage of the opportunities that college life gives you and making the most of them.
• Always do your best. Put in the extra mile on assignments and tests. It will pay off for you in the long run.
• Be involved. The more you are involved, the more experiences you will gain that will make you well-rounded. These experiences will be applicable to many different aspects of your adult life.
• People will always try to bring you down, many times without cause. Don't let them! Try your best to bring them up to your level. Be positive even when it is hard.
• Be the first believer in whatever you do. If you don't truly believe in what you are trying to do, why should or would anyone else? Belief, passion, energy, and positivity are always contagious.

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?

From the College of Education, Dr. John Hicks and former assistant dean Dr. Herb Hunt are easily two of the best. Words cannot do justice as to how highly I think of those two. I still get the opportunity to work with Dr. Hunt through his HH Education Events workshops which shows you that sometimes the relationships you build in college continue to benefit you once you have graduated. Outside of the College of Education, I was influenced by Dr. John Craig and Dr. David Dixon from the History Department as well as Dr. Patrick Burkhart from the Geology Department. All of these guys where influential in developing my teaching style and now in what I look for from teachers in my building. If we all taught as passionately and effectively as them, we would all be better off. As far as SRU experiences, my experiences in Residence Life as a Community Assistant were very positive. This allowed me to discover even more ways to get involved in the greater university community and get to know people I still work with and keep in touch with today. 

What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is one who is highly involved in the school and community in which they teach. Great teachers also care about their students and seek to develop positive relationships with students, families and community stakeholders. Great teachers are also lifelong learners and are flexible, passionate, and innovative with what they teach. Last but not least, great teachers are leaders and problem solvers who look for solutions to challenges and disappointments instead of huddling with negative people and complaining. These teachers always put students first.

Jessika Fontaine

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?
I am currently teaching at Freedom High School in Freedom, PA. As a Special Education teacher, I have fulfilled many roles throughout the eight years of teaching such as: Learning Support Science, English, and Study Skills. For 7 years, I have been a co-teacher in the 9th grade classes for English, Biology, History, Algebra and Computers. However, I took last year off from co-teaching to open and develop the Life Skills program within the high school. 

What have you done particularly well in your position?
If I had to say what I have done well within my position, it is only from what others tell me. This includes my IEP writing skills, as well as making connections and building relationships with the students. 

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?
The advice I would give is to make the most out of your practicum experiences. You will learn the most from working with the students and other teachers. Don't be afraid to take risks and make mistakes -- it happens to all teachers. Knowing how to turn mistakes into teachable moments is what students will remember most. 

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?
Dr. Rose and Dr. Wells are the two professors that positively influenced me the most within undergraduate and graduate classes. Both of these wonderful ladies never gave up on me and always pushed me to my limit. Just when I thought I had mastered a concept to the best of my ability, both of them would always pose questions that made me think even harder. At times it drove me crazy and made me frustrated, but in the end, I can't thank them enough for continuing to push me farther than I knew I could go. They saw that there was more potential in me than I ever saw. 

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher is one who listens to their students. By listening, you'll learn so much and it will make you a better teacher for years to come because you will have earned trust and respect from your students. They will be more willing to comply and be a better student which, in the end, helps them become better people. By listening, you will change the world one student at a time.

Sami Fornsaglio

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?  
I graduated in the spring of 2017 from SRU with a dual major in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.  I am currently a first year Intervention Specialist teacher at Karaffa Elementary School in Toronto, Ohio as well as the assistant coach for Toronto Junior High girls volleyball.  

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is knowing that each of my students have specific goals catered to their needs and that I am the one who gets to help them reach their goals.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?   
Don't take for granted the support, resources, and opportunities provided by SRU. The staff there are wonderful and have so much wisdom to share. In addition, there are tons of materials available for you to use free-of-charge. For College of Ed. students, there are tremendous field placement opportunities available for teaching experience. Don't be upset if you didn't go to the school you wanted. Embrace the placement you received. Make the most of it and learn as much as you can. ALWAYS take the opportunity to teach because you will learn and grow along the way.

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.    
Choosing just one faculty member that had a positive influence on myself is hard to do. However, the first person that comes to mind is Dr. Amodei. Dr. Amodei has been with me until the end. Not only was she my professor for multiple courses, but she was also my supervisor during student teaching. She was caring, passionate, patient, and resourceful. She expressed the importance of being an advocate for students. I love how passionate she is. Not only does she care about the kids, but she cares about her students in college as well. During student teaching, I had an emergency, and she was one of the first people I contacted letting her know what happened and that I was not going to be in my placement teaching that day. She was extremely worried about me, how I was doing, and if I needed anything.That kind of love and dedication is hard to come by, and I admire that so much. I look up to her and aspire to be like her. She is my role model. 

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher is not just someone who makes flawless lesson plans, has the best materials, or is professionally dressed in the most expensive clothing. A great teacher is one who knows their kids, knows their story, and is able to create an environment in which they feel comfortable and accepted. A great teacher knows what their students enjoy and uses that to reinforce their teaching to make it enjoyable. When your students are happy and having fun, you are happy and having fun. A great teacher is an advocate who puts their students on a high pedestal. They help change these kids' lives to reach their potential. Great teachers believe in their students so the students can believe in themselves. 

Joe Lamenza

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?

I currently teach at Blackhawk High School in Beaver Falls, PA. I teach College Prep English 10, English 12, and English 9. I am also the head varsity football coach.

Prior to Blackhawk, I worked for eight years in the Beaver Area School District in Beaver, PA. During my tenure at Beaver, I taught high school English for two years and 4th grade for three years. I was the dean of students at Dutch Ridge Elementary School (Grades 3-6) for my last three years at Beaver.

What have you done particularly well in your position?

If I've done anything particularly well, it would be my focus on reflection, continual improvement, and lifelong learning. I have applied that philosophy to all of the positions that I've held. Additionally, I think I've been able to connect with most of my students/players over the years. The ability to connect is vitally important when it comes to teaching, learning, and motivation.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?

Work hard and be prepared.

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?

Looking back, when I first entered the College of Education, I was immature and lazy. I had no idea what I was getting into. I struggled a lot. The faculty pushed me hard. I had some rough days when I felt like quitting, but my advisor, Dr. Thomas Gordon, stuck by me through the entire experience.

There were a few other faculty members who influenced me in a positive way and helped to get me on the right path...

Dr. Thomas Kandl, who taught Methods of Teaching Math. His philosophy when it came to unit planning and assessment really resonated with me.

I was enamored with Dr. John Badgett. I found his class to be challenging, but I was fascinated by the subject matter. To this day, assessment remains a passion of mine and that no doubt started with his class.

Dr. Rose Heilman-Houser's passion for children's literature was contagious. She was so positive and encouraging. She inspired confidence in me at a time when I really needed it.

What makes a great teacher?

Hard work. Preparation. Passion. Passion for teaching, how students learn, and the art of teaching makes a great teacher. You're not going to get rich teaching. The rewards are intrinsic. You have to love what you're doing and you have to love being around your students. Students know when a teacher truly cares about them. Students can't see your intentions; they only see your behavior.

Brittany Venetti



Being that it is the beginning of a new school year, it is important to set a positive tone and have a safe classroom environment. The motto for my classroom this year is "It's Cool to Be Kind" and "Be Kind, Always." My students had the opportunity to sign the Kindness contract, which you can see in the center of my bulletin board. We then completed an activity where each student wrote something nice about themselves, something kind about a friend, and then I wrote a nice message about them. These "Kind Note" posters are also featured on the bulletin board.



Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?

I am in my 2nd year of teaching at Rochester Elementary in Rochester, Pennsylvania. Last year I was the 3rd and 4th grade Learning Support teacher. This year I am the 4th and 5th grade Learning Support teacher, so I have been blessed with getting to teach the same students for another school year! I teach Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, and Writing.

What have you done particularly well in your position?

I believe I have done a nice job creating positive relationships with my students and their families.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?

My advice would be to fully invest in the teacher preparation program. Go to class, do the work, and you will see successful results in your future. Also, take full advantage of your field placements and student teaching by making positive relationships with your cooperating teachers. Make sure you ask questions and do not be afraid to make mistakes because that is how you learn!

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?

I am thankful for all of the hands-on experiences that the teacher preparation program at SRU provided me with. They really get you in the classroom from the start! The SRU experiences that positively influenced me the most were my field and student teaching placements. Shout out to Mrs. Shannon Abbott , Mrs. Patti Shaffer, Mrs. Michelle Sappas, and Mrs. Bethany Barrett! These ladies have been wonderful influences in my life inside the classroom as well as outside of it. I am grateful for them being my mentors and sharing their passion for teaching while I was a student at Slippery Rock University.

What makes a great teacher?

Heart is what makes a great teacher. The sad reality is that school will be the only form of stability in some of your students' lives! These children will look up to you in ways that you cannot even imagine. You could be the reason they wake up in the morning and the reason they smile during the school day. Be kind, loving, and warm. Offer your students grace and patience because they will absolutely test it, but they deserve your best every day. As the poster on my classroom door reads, "Keep Shining. The world needs your light!"

Brian Crossley

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?

Currently, I am teaching at the Trinity Area School District at Trinity North Elementary School in Washington, PA. I am a Kindergarten through 5th grade emotional support teacher.

What have you done particularly well in your position?

I have created positive relationships with my students and parents. As a teacher, it is very important to maintain trust and open communication with parents and students. I always make sure that I listen to the needs of every single one of my students and meet them the best I can. Also, I communicate with parents to gain insight on their children's' interests, what works for them as parents, and how I can implement those insights into the classroom.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?

The advice I would give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program is to take every opportunity given to you in observations, field experiences, and student teaching. Throughout your experiences, ask questions to your field supervisor and mentor teacher because it helps you grow as a teacher candidate. By doing this, you will develop many professional relationships and networking opportunities. Also, I would tell each student in the teacher preparation program to take one day at a time, and it is okay to make mistakes. You will be faced with many obstacles. When you are, remember tomorrow is another day to make improvements. Just like your students, you are learning. Be the educator you want to and know you can be through the preparation from Slippery Rock.

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?

If it wasn't for Slippery Rock's teacher preparation program, I would not be the teacher I am in or in the current position I am in today. Slippery Rock's teacher preparation program gives you every opportunity to prepare you for the educational field. One faculty member that has positively influenced me was Dr. Erickson and his Special Education Assessment class. He gave us every opportunity in his class to learn the IEP process through the development and implementation of it. With special education being my passion, Dr. Erickson allowed us to use IEP Writer to learn how to write this document. This was such a valuable experience because I have sat in many interviews, with school districts, that have asked if I am familiar with IEP Writer. By becoming familiar with this program, in college, it allowed me to better myself. Also, Dr. Erickson allowed students to participate in an ALICE training at one of the school districts he worked for. Again, the ALICE training gave me a real world experience and opportunity in the field of education.

What makes a great teacher?

What makes a great teacher is passion, willingness to take risks, and patience. Every student I have come across has influenced me. I learned about success and how to overcome hardships through my students. My students always make me want to come back to teach, even if we had a bad day before or a great one the day before that. My students rely on me every single day, and knowing that grows my passion for teaching. It is crucial to understand that each day will not be perfect, but that the most important thing is how you adapt and overcome challenges. Finally, great teachers need to have patience. Being patient, understanding, and open with your students will create positive relationships and a safe classroom environment.

Melanie Hughes

 

 

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?
I am in my 7th year of teaching at Stafford County Public Schools. Previously, I was the Early Childhood Special Education Resource Teacher at Head Start where I worked with 4 year-olds. This upcoming 2017-18 school year, I will be teaching in a Self-Contained Autism Preschool Classroom. I will be working with 3 and 4 year-olds!

What have you done particularly well in your position?
I have had to learn to balance several different roles over the past few years. I have had to be incredibly organized as I have worked with students with IEPs, 504 plans, and behavior intervention plans. I have helped mentor several new teachers as our special education program in preschool has expanded tremendously over the years. I have worked hard to manage my time and help teachers and students have a successful school year.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?
Take it seriously. Spend as much time in the classroom as you can and ask teachers important questions. Enjoy every minute of it!

What SRU experience or faculty positively influenced you, and in what way?
Slippery Rock has been a wonderful experience for me! I graduated in December 2011 with my Bachelor's Degree in early childhood, elementary and special education, and then a Master's Degree in special education with an emphasis of Autism in December 2014. I am currently in the process of applying for the doctoral program in special education! The faculty is amazing and I still keep in contact with many of my past professors. I absolutely love everything about my education and experience at Slippery Rock University and if I could do it all over again, I would!

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher individualizes, understands, and cares. They are willing to make accommodations and modifications for their students. They spend time getting to know their students and not just teaching the lesson.

Ryan Sutton

 

What is your educational background and what positions have you held?

I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a B.S. in History and Japanese, and got my M.Ed. in Social Studies from SRU. During my time at SRU, I was given the opportunity to work with the History department as a Graduate Assistant with the Old Stone House Center for Public Humanities. After graduating, I worked for one year at Rocky Mount Prep., a charter school in North Carolina, where I taught 8th grade Social Studies. I currently work at Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh, where I teach grades 7-12 social studies.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

When students think about what they've learned in my class outside of school. For example, one day a student told me that my class changed the way he views and plays Assassin's Creed (a video game based on historical events). Small instances like that really make my day.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally?

To students in the teacher preparation program: when you are preparing for student teaching, reach out to your mentor teacher as soon as possible prior to the first day of class. I had an amazing experience student teaching, thanks to my great mentor who trusted me to almost completely take over the classroom from day one. This would not have happened if I didn't reach out to her ahead of time.

 

To students at SRU in general: Always be open and looking for opportunities to stand out and work with professors outside of class. My time as Graduate Assistant at The Old Stone House was one of the most transformative things I did at SRU, and I found it entirely by chance.

 

Name an SRU experience or faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why. 

Dr. Hilton and Dr. Hicks have a lot to do with how I teach today. My lesson planning process, as well as the way I reflect on my successes and failures as a teacher are taken directly from their classes.

 

What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is flexible, quick to improvise, and constantly evaluating their own performance. They have thick skin and a strong enough ego to withstand failure from both themselves and their students. They are charismatic, enjoy laughing at themselves, and work well as a team. Most importantly, a great teacher is someone who loves their subject so much that they cannot keep it to themselves.

Ian Schwan

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?

I teach at Chittenango School District in Chittenango, NY (12 miles east of Syracuse, NY). I teach Physical Education for grades 5 and 9-12. Additionally, I teach Adapted Physical Education at my High School.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?

As teachers, our goal is to provide as many opportunities as possible for kids to be successful. Make sure you believe in what you are pursuing!

What is one positive experience that you have had with a student?

I have a student who is interested in pursuing the military after high school. He has now become a regular in the weight room with me and has begun to devote his extra time to preparing for it academically as well. He has been able to put on 18 pounds in the past 3 months, and has began to actively meet with recruiters for different military branches.

What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is someone who believes in making a difference -- someone who pushes kids even when they are already succeeding, and challenges students to be better not just in school-related activities, but in life.

Bev Martin

 

 

What has been your experience as a professional teacher/educator/administrator?

I think mostly about the students and how the needs of the students have changed. When I first began, for example, there was no social media or anything that resembled social media -- being a teacher has become so much more complicated now with all of the new technology. Teachers must be willing to accommodate to new challenges and adapt to their students.
 

What is one positive experience that you have had with a student?
A student achieved the ability to walk when he was not sure that walking was an achievable goal. Never say never. He had physical and intellectual disabilities. You have to think about what is realistic for children, and this student surpassed the expectations that I had. Never underestimate what a child can achieve. Don’t let your experience and insight interfere with your judgment of that student.
 

What advice would you give to current college students who are preparing to be teachers?
Start where the child is and go from there. You have to accommodate to the students. Allow them to function where they are, but remember to challenge them. Remember that you are a role model, a professional, and an educator. Be friendly, but do not be the student’s friend. Be supportive.
 

What is one thing that you learned from Slippery Rock University’s teacher preparation program that you have brought into your classroom?
Bachelor's in ‘79 and Master’s in ‘81 both from here. I had a great profession named David Auxter who stressed the importance of setting realistic goals for students and measuring those goals so you can tell if you are being effective. He was also a great advocate for individuals with disabilities and instilled in me that it was important to pay attention to policy because it greatly affects how you teach.  
 

What is one challenge that you have faced and how have you successfully dealt with it during your teaching experience?
I learned that I can take on and succeed with challenges that I was trained to handle. It is about not shortchanging yourself. Take problems and do your best to overcome them. Just believe in yourself.
 

What makes a great teacher?
You must care about educating students. It is about caring. There must be a good balance between rapport and discipline. Instruct and assess your students in your subject area. You must have compassion and discipline.

Amanda Carnes

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?
I am currently a special education teacher for Easter Seals. We are an approved private school for children ages 3-8. I teach life skills as well as the implementation of the verbal behavior program in the classroom.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?
To be successful in the teacher education program, you must be dedicated to studying and practicing different teaching techniques to successfully execute lessons to students. Current teacher education students need to be aware of deadlines for certification tests to prepare for graduation.

What is one positive experience that you have had with a student?
I have had many positive experiences with students. I would have to say the greatest experience with a student with special needs is when I taught a specific picture card for the student to label, and they were able to identify the picture aloud.  To many this may seem simple.  But in reality, and for this student, this represented a real milestone.

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher thinks “outside the box,” is not afraid to get messy, and ensures students are retaining skills as well as maintaining them across other environments. Also, a great teacher always reflects what they could do differently after teaching.