Samantha Hamilton

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?
I am currently teaching at Pressley Ridge Day School in Pittsburgh, PA. I am a Special Education Teacher for grades K-3.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?
The advice I would give to current students would be to push yourself to the limit and to never give up. You never truly know all the greatness that you are capable of until you are tested. At times, you may feel defeated and lost, but there is always a light at the end of the tunnel! You are only given obstacles in which you can achieve, so push hard, learn lots, and enjoy the journey!

What is one positive experience that you have had with a student?
There are so many positive experiences that it is hard to pick just one! However, it is always a great feeling when your students walk through the door, see you and immediately get a smile on their face and say “Good morning, Miss H!” There is seriously nothing better than that! It also creates such a warm and welcoming environment for learning.

What makes a great teacher?
I think passion and determination make a great teacher. A great teacher needs to be passionate not only about what they are doing, but about their students as well. Not every day is going to be great, but a great teacher will take small moments and make them memorable. A great teacher is also determined to make every child feel special in their own way. With this passion and determination, a great teacher can transform a life and make it more than anyone ever thought to be possible!

Stephanie Long

What is your current position and what do you do in that position?

I am the Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Education Program at Butler County Community College.  In addition to teaching education courses, I ensure our courses are in alignment with NAEYC and PDE standards.  Also, I represent the department at Open Houses and other events, and  I  tutor for our PAPA/Praxis program that we offer at the college. 

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

Slippery Rock University’s education program does an astounding job in preparing you for the field of education.  Make sure you strive for excellence and set yourself apart from others by joining clubs and organizations that Slippery Rock University offers.  Lastly, become dually certified. Add a second major.  It will help give you that extra edge when applying to school districts. 

What is one positive, unforgettable experience that you have had with your position?

My most memorable moment was while I was attending Open House this semester.  I was able to share my enthusiasm for the teaching profession with prospective teacher candidates.  I enjoyed sharing my knowledge about education with future students and it was gratifying to see several of them realize that the education profession is more than just “playing with children.” 

What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is in the profession to make a difference in a child’s life.  They are positive, compassionate, and able to collaborate with their colleagues to ensure student success. 

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

When you still get butterflies in the stomach the first day of school, regardless if it is your 1st year or your 15^th year, you know you are in the right profession.

Becca Kolenda (Monismith)

Where are you teaching? What subjects and grades?
After graduation in 2015, I married to my high school sweetheart and moved to Detroit, Michigan. Teaching is a competitive field here, but I was blessed to get a lead position teaching in Michigan's GSRP (Great Start Readiness Program). GSRP is funded by the state and focuses on providing all students with a quality foundation for education. This is my second year teaching preschool (four and five year old students) through GSRP.

What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program?
Take advantage of observing different grade levels during field experiences. You never know what you might be missing if you stay within a familiar, comfortable grade range.

Reach out to other teachers for support. We all understand the highs and lows of being a professional educator. Seeking advice from experienced teachers will give you confidence in your teaching abilities.

What is one positive experience that you have had with a student?
My students come from low-income communities, so many of them need much support, especially in the beginning of the year. This year specifically, I have a student who could not hold a pencil, let alone write the letters in his name. I would encourage his efforts and provide him with many opportunities to write, even if it was just scribbles. One day in November, my student had drawn a picture and I told him to write his name on the back...He made discrete letter forms -- and I could read his name! He wrote it independently, and I was so proud! One day, he randomly wrapped his arms around my leg and said, "I love you, Miss Becca." This interaction makes me know deep in my heart that I'm making a positive difference in my students' lives.

What makes a great teacher?
A great teacher is dedicated to the profession, as well as the needs of her/his students, never gives up on a student, and works to help them overcome obstacles. A great teacher accepts that any shortcoming is worth it because we're making a positive difference in our students' lives. Great teachers are patient, kind, welcoming, and understanding. A great teacher knows how to have fun and when to be serious. A great teacher meets each student where they're at instead of expecting them to all be at the same level. A great teacher makes sacrifices.