Amy Walter

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

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary English Education degree with a minor in Film and Media Studies in 2006. I then went straight into my graduate program, while working as a Long Term Substitute for two consecutive years at Karns City, New Castle, and Seneca Valley school districts. I graduated with my Masters in Elementary Education with a Reading Specialist focus in 2010. I was offered a position at Grove City Middle School to teach 8th grade reading a few weeks before I graduated. Nine years later I am still employed at Grove City Middle School where I still teach 8th grade.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is to see students fall in love with reading all over again. That is why I do what I do. I love sharing my love of books to my kiddos to help them understand how magical a world can be when you live it as a life-long reader. Eighth grade is a difficult age, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

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

The best advice I would give to SRU students is to get involved. I truly believe that the co-curricular knowledge I gained during both my undergrad and graduate time set me apart from the competition. I also recommend picking up a minor. My minor in Film and Media Studies has been extremely beneficial to me throughout my career because it allows me to see things through multiple perspectives. Also, take advantage of traveling with the university. I attended professional conferences with faculty, most notable was my first- the Sigma Tau Delta conference where I presented my first academic paper. Following this experience, I then presented at the National Council Teachers of English conference with two notable authors. As a reading teacher, this experience definitely set me apart, and it helped me mold my career in the direction I wanted to take it when I first began in this profession.

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

The first decade of the 21st Century truly was a great time to be at Slippery Rock. There are so many professors during both my undergraduate and graduate programs that I owe my career to.  
I wouldn't be the teacher I am today if it wasn't for Dr. Kathleen Strickland and Dr. James Strickland. They introduced me to the NCTE organization where I met my first mentor in the field, Mr. Bob Dandoy, who later became at adjunct at SRU. In the English department, both Dr. Rachela Permenter and Dr. William Covey were two professors who I felt really challenged me in both film and literary criticism. Their teaching helped me to lay my own educational foundation.

During graduate school I was honored to serve one year as the GA for Dr. Marilyn Yensick, who helped me rekindle my passion for education, after I was frustrated that my long term substitute positions hadn't turned into anything permanent at the time. I credit both Dr. Suzanne Rose and Dr. Debbie Wells from turning me from an English teacher into a Reading Specialist, a professional identity I hold in high regard.

And finally, Dr. William Boggs helped me to find my voice as a poet. Taking his class for professional development credit on a whim, I am now a published poet (who knew I had that in me?). Dr. Boggs knew, and I thank him for the continued guidance and support years ago.

Abby Heidt

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

I recently graduated from Slippery Rock in May of 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4.) Currently, I am the Director of Child Care at the YMCA of Greater Erie branch site at Klein Elementary School. I plan on pursuing a Master's Degree in Higher Education/Student Affairs. I worked for the YMCA as a summer camp counselor for four years before becoming the Director at Klein. I am also the lead teacher at the site; with this, I plan and lead lessons before and after school. I have students ranging from kindergarten to sixth grade. During the day, I work on making sure our STARS certification is up to date.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is being able to create a safe and fun environment, promoting individual growth development while watching the students thrive. I love watching the children get to be themselves while being creative and playing different games.

3. What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program, and to SRU students generally? 
To the students enrolled in the education program at Slippery Rock, my advice would be to not let other people bring you down. We live in a world where some people think that education majors only choose it because of the summers off. Being told that our major isn't "good enough" is always hard but keep your head up because you know in your heart that it is! You are going to change some child's life for the better! For students of the university, get involved! I met the best people and had the best experiences because I was involved. Don't wait to the last minute to do so. There is a club or organization for everyone. Slippery Rock is an amazing college so be proud to be a student there! Time flies so make the most out of it. You're most likely going to miss it.

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

During my four years at Slippery Rock, I had three different faculty members make a big impact on my experience. Dr. Walsh and Dr. Lynch made my time in the education department special. I always felt that they really got to know their students. They were always making class a little bit more interesting. Both professors made me feel like I could always accomplish anything. They were always helpful. Also, Lauren Moran, the director of the Office for Student Engagement and Leadership, made a huge impact on me. Lauren pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and showed me how much I love being a part of Student Affairs. Without her, I don't think I could speak to a group of college students or adults today without freaking out during it. Lauren helped me grow as an adult and do things that I was terrified to do only a year prior.

5. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is someone who is willing to care for anyone, no matter who the person is. There is always at least one student that can be frustrating but a great teacher looks past that and cares for all of his or her students. Great teachers go above and beyond for their students. I always think of a teacher that is always trying to work with a student. They try different ways of explaining things if a student doesn't understand, they always try to be warm and welcoming, always saying hello, and can get the attention of the room. A great teacher is someone who can be a role model and someone that any child can look up to.

Kaitlyn Harris

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

I graduated in May 2018 with a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education & Special Education. I am a special education teacher in Culpeper County Public Schools in Culpeper, Virginia. I teach students who have behavioral issues and are emotionally disturbed. The students range from K-5. Throughout the day I help the students with their social skills, behaviors, and academic content.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my students growing and replacing their behaviors. My students have a difficult time sitting in the general education classrooms. This year I have been working very hard with them on using their coping and self-calming skills to replace those behaviors. I love to see them take their social skills, positive reinforcement, and other taught lessons and applying them to their everyday interactions.

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

For the students who are in the teacher preparation program: Make sure you focus and really listen to what your professors are telling you. It may surprise you to know, but everything they are teaching you will come up at some point in your career. Getting through this time can be very stressful and sometimes overwhelming. Be sure to stay ahead on your course work! Never put anything off because then you will become more stressed than you need to be.

For students who are student teaching: Enjoy your time in your placements! These kids will teach you way more than you would think. Put yourself out there and be willing to do things that will set you above and beyond other student teachers. Do your very best every-day and remember that you are ready for this!

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

The special education professors at Slippery Rock University were some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. They encouraged me to become a strong advocate for those who cannot be one for themselves, become passionate about the special education field, and dedicated in making an impact on each student’s life. Thanks to all of my professors, I can say confidently that I felt very prepared going out into the career world and cannot wait to see what else is in store for me.

5. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher puts in the extra work and effort to be sure that all of their students are learning to the best of their ability and growing into amazing and passionate students. Your connection and relationship with each student will be the deciding factor on how your time will go. You never know what a child is going through outside of school. Be that person that can put a smile on their face or that they can come talk to. You play such an important role in each student’s life. You will do great things if you just take the time and go the extra mile.

 

Julia Schuerle

     

 

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

I started at Slippery Rock University in the Fall of 2014 with a dual major in Early Childhood (PreK-4) and Special Education (K – 8). I graduated in May of 2018 and currently am a fourth grade teacher in Laveen, Arizona. I instruct 27 fourth graders in all content areas.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

There are many rewarding aspects of being a teacher. The most rewarding part of teaching for me is when you can see the lightbulb go off when a student finally understands something. There is nothing worse, and defeating, than teaching something and the students not understanding. The best part is when you go back and reteach and you get to see the ‘ah-ha’ moment for the students. Another thing that is really rewarding is making personal relationships with your students where you get to know them as not just one of your students but as a nine or ten year old too.

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

Advice that I would give to current students in the teacher preparation program is to find what makes you happy and strive for it. Going into teaching you want to be happy and being happy is part of what is going to make you most successful. Additional advice I would give to students is to get involved. While at SRU I was involved in several education clubs but the one I was most involved in was Student PSEA. I think this club gave me opportunities and experiences so that I could have the tools to set myself up for success.

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

Dr. Bieniek, who is a professor in the Special Education department was one of my professors who had a positive influence on me. The passion that he has for what he does really conveys in his teaching. Sometimes when I’m with my students I stop and think “what would Dr. B do right now,” and it helps me think more clearly about the situation. One thing he would always talk about in class was data and how important it was and that is one thing that I have found to be incredibly true. Every good teaching decision is based off of data. Dr. Bieniek is an excellent professor and I hope to be the positive influence he was on me to my fourth graders.

5. What makes a great teacher?

What makes for a great teacher is not only someone who knows how to teach academics but can also be there for the students emotionally. There is so much more to teaching than teaching the standards. You have to be there for the students physically, academically, and emotionally. It is difficult to balance all three but I think what makes a great teacher is someone who finds that balance and incorporates it daily into the classroom.

 

Paige Wesley

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

 I earned my bachelors degree from Slippery Rock in May and I was a dual major in Early Childhood education (pk-4) and special education (pk-8). After I graduated in May I was fortunate to accept a summer position at The Watson Institute’s WISCA (Watson Institute Social Center for Academic Achievement) program as an instructional aide for their Extended School Year. After ESY I accepted a full time position at WISCA for the 2018-2019 school year, also as an instructional aide.

Being an instructional aide, I assist the teacher, and help the students in the classroom. I was placed in an upper elementary classroom ranging from grades 5-7. Most of my students are diagnosed with high functioning Autism, but many of the students have multiple diagnoses including, ODD, ADHD, Anxiety and OCD to name a few.

Some of my responsibilities are to help the students with their online curriculum, developing appropriate social skills, and how to appropriately cope with stressful and uncomfortable situations. I am also responsible for aiding the teacher with tasks such as keeping attendance, recording data, and developing student agendas.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is gaining trust from students. Many students at WISCA have had negative experiences at their home school district or previous placements and I think it is important and rewarding when a student is able to trust you and are able to ask for your help when they need it. It is also rewarding when you see your students progressing and succeeding. Some days may be stressful and tough. It may feel like a revolving door, but when it clicks with the student it feels great.

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

The main thing I would tell current SRU students is to become involved on campus with groups and organizations. During my 4 years at The Rock I was part of the Marching Band and Winter Guard. This made my transition from high school to college a lot more smooth than if I were not involved. It made me apart of a large “family” and I was able to keep busy but I also developed friendships and memories that will last forever. Do not be afraid to become involved!

For someone that is currently in the teacher preparation program, Don’t Stress!! All of the hard work is worth it. Each field/student teaching placement really is helping you prepare for your future as a teacher. During those placements I would absorb as much as possible, and do not be afraid of constructive criticism. Listen to your cooperating teachers when they give advice, and listen to your professors and supervisors when they talk about their experiences. For me it was really nerve-wracking and scary not knowing if I would get a job in my field after graduation, so I would advice to take anything that comes your way. Future employers are looking for experience and I would accept anything to gain more experience.

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

I think a lot of the professors that I had in the College of Ed were amazing. You could tell that they were there to help you succeed, and they really did care about your well being. The one faculty member that stands out the most during my time at SRU was Dr. Carmine DeCarlo. I was able to have her as a professor for one of my classes, and I was fortunate to have her as my supervisor during student teaching. I could tell that she was passionate about teaching and educating others and that was reflected during a class session. When she would come observe me during student teaching I was receptive of her comments, and she also made a point of complementing what you did right, but also giving great advice on something you could change. She made it reassuring every time that I was heading into the right career path.

Another faculty member that made a big impact on my experience was my color guard instructor Bruno Zuccala. He taught me hard work, and determination. He was able to be tough when it was needed, but he was also a very caring and passionate person. If you asked he would do anything to help you succeed. As a retired educator himself I was always interested in hearing his stories and experiences. I will always be thankful for the experiences I had because of him. 

5. What makes a great teacher?

What I think makes a great teacher is a combination many things. One thing is passion. You really need to be passionate about what you are doing and who you are teaching. The impact you have on a student can really determine the future of that student. You also need to have patience. Patience is important because days can be stressful. Some students may try to argue with you and challenge you, but if you are patient, in time you'll see their progress and that's what really matters. I also think having empathy and being empathetic towards your students makes a great teacher. You develop an important bond with your students and being able to put yourself in their shoes can really put yourself between a good teacher and a great teacher. One other quality is flexibility. Schedules may change or things might not go as planned, and being able to do something on a whim can really make or break how the rest of the school day is going to go. I truly believe a combination of all of these qualities can really make a great teacher.

Sydney Larner

 

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

I started as an undergraduate at Slippery Rock University in the fall of 2014 and graduated in May of 2018 with my dual degree in Early Childhood (PreK-4) and Special Education (K-8). Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education: Grades 7-12, and I also work at The Watson Institute as an instructional aide in the Watson Institute Social Center for Academic Achievement (WISCA) program.

As an instructional aide, I am an assistant to the teacher; and I still get to work with all of the students and form unique bonds with each and every one of them. I started there this school year, and I work with students ranging from 8th-11th grade in my classroom. All of the students that I have are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and some have a wide range of other disabilities or disorders that encompass them as well. Some may have multiple diagnoses with their autism, such as anxiety, ADD/ADHD, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)/conduct disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), emotional disturbance, and many others.

During the day, I assist the students with their online curriculum, help them recognize and apply social cues/skills and coping mechanisms, teach and assist them with activities of daily living and self-sufficient tasks, and I also help them build upon their independence when they start to transition from middle school and high school to the real world; whether that be with pursuing a degree at a two or four year school/college/university, a trade, or other future career outside of Watson.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is being able to see all of my students, plus the many other students outside of my classroom within the program and beyond, succeed in everyday life and society. The potential that I see in each of these kids is endless, and they are constantly pushing themselves to reach new heights accomplish more than they thought they could. I love seeing their ‘light bulbs’ go off, and I thrive when they reach their ‘a-ha’ moments and say, “Oh, I get it! This makes so much sense, why didn’t I think of this before?” I always tell them, “You may have needed a little assistance with getting to where you are now, but the drive you had to figuring it out is so commendable, and that is what is worth it. I am proud of you.”

All of my students are so intelligent, and possess such unique abilities, personalities, and talents; they make me realize that I am learning so much everyday, just like them, just on different subjects. They can provide so much insight about anything, and make you think of things you would have never thought of before. The perspective in special education is that anyone with a disability should be seen and cared for as ‘different not less’, and with these students, that is exactly the mantra that they have established within themselves.

Being an assistant to the special education teacher in my classroom has also been so rewarding and fulfilling; I am gaining so many tips, tricks, and precious experience that is propelling me closer and closer to my end goal: being a special education teacher of any grade level for students with any disability. Plus, I am really putting my Master’s coursework to the test!

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

Some advice that I would give to current students that are enrolled in the teacher preparatory program is to definitely get involved, and find your niche. Don’t be afraid to try something new, because, and I can practically guarantee this, you are not alone, and it is perfectly okay to be scared or nervous at first, or even the first few times! Everybody has distinct interests and amazing abilities that can be brought to light more and more throughout college, and what you choose to participate in and how you present yourself can speak highly of that. I remember being the President of the Autism Speaks U SRU organization for 2 years was one of the many aspects of my college career that I am most thankful for. Being in that position provided me with so many grateful and truly heartwarming moments with people that all cared for the same mission. Your clubs/organizations that you join and the activities/events that you attend can help you develop into a more well-rounded individual, and help you realize interests, abilities, and talents that you never thought you possessed or thought you could handle on your own. Your potential is limitless! Also, with being an education major, so many people are in your same boat, so don’t feel like you can’t reach out to anyone about anything. You all become a bit of a family throughout your four years together!

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

Throughout my time at Slippery Rock University, I got the chance to spend time and bond with so many tremendous faculty within the education department, and within other departments as well. Specifically though, within the education department, I will name a few.

Dr. Eric Bieniek, is a professor of the Special Education department at Slippery Rock. He is an outstanding individual. I personally got to work with him as he was one of the advisors for Autism Speaks U SRU, and I even got to be so lucky to have him as a professor; you are never bored and the learning never stops in his classes. He teaches you way beyond the material and coursework, and he provides so many real-life examples that turn into experiences you’ll soon face as an educator. I can’t express how many times I have had this phrase go through my head, “Dr. B was right!” Also, he assisted me and other prestigious SRU alumni with a tremendously successful project that included delivering school supplies and monetary donations for an entire school district within the U.S. Virgin Islands that were affected from the devastating hurricane disasters in 2017. He is a person that never fails you, and is always pushing you to achieve better than you thought you could. He has so much drive and endless passion, and he exhibits that every time you speak with him. Dr. Bieniek ROCKS!

Dr. Jeremy Lynch, also from the Special Education department, is another fantastic individual, and he was my academic advisor throughout college. I had Dr. Lynch as a professor a few times as well, and he makes you think of things in a different perspective, way beyond what one may think. He has a strategy or solution to any situation you may encounter while teaching, and his personality is very relaxed and straight to the point, which is what one has to understand and present when teaching kids with special needs! His teachings are instilled within me to this day; and I am so appreciative and proud that I was able to have him as a professor and advisor.

5. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher exudes multiple attributes: empathy, flexibility, determination, patience (of course), compassion, and a special appreciation for teaching children of all kind. A great teacher is unique themselves, and does not mind going outside of the box in order to have a student understand something. They believe in discovering and reaching all limits of a child, and don’t always use cookie-cutter tactics or basic techniques to teach children all the same way all the time. They go the extra mile to assist anyone and everyone they can, and NEVER GIVE UP on themselves. A great teacher accepts their failures, and persists toward greater triumphs that will outweigh what they once were not good at. Every teacher has their own ‘a-ha’ moments, and those happen more often than one may think. No matter what a teacher is teaching, I also believe an element of comfort, humor, and confidence needs to be expressed no matter what they are teaching or helping their students learn. The students need to know if their teacher can be goofy, authentic, and stray away from the standard norm, then they should be able to express themselves as they wish, and be free to follow that mentality.

Kathryn Dickey

1. What is your educational background and what positions have you held? 
I received my Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood Education and Special Education in December of 2017. After graduation, I moved back home to Cortland, Ohio and I was able to sub daily with various districts in my area. This provided me with the opportunity of long-term subbing in two different districts before the end of last school year. I am currently an Elementary Intervention Specialist (Special Education) at Bloomfield-Mespo Local Schools in Trumbull County in Ohio.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

There are many rewarding aspects of being a teacher. In my opinion, the most rewarding aspect is when students begin to trust you and confide in you. As a special education teacher, this can sometimes be difficult because I don't have my students for every second of every day. When professors say that rapport with your students is essential, they are 100% accurate. Having relationships with your students is crucial to your success as a teacher. It won't happen overnight so don't be too hard on yourself when it's not instant; every student is different and each student will learn to trust you at their own pace. If you show that you care about them (learning about their interests, background, etc.), I promise you will build a great connection!

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

For students who are pre-student teaching, two things: time management and get involved. As far as time management, learn this as soon as you can. It will be essential to your success during college and into student teaching. It will help you not only in your classes, but also for yourself when you need to take a breather. Also, get involved as much as possible. One of the biggest organizations I was involved in on campus was Kappa Delta Pi. I started out as a member then eventually worked my way up to hold an executive board position as Secretary for two semesters. This organization provided me with opportunities to get more involved in schools outside of my regular classes as well as give back to the community. For students who are currently in student teaching, time management is your best friend. Learn how to manage your time because you will become very busy at various points in the semester. I'm not going to lie, this will be your toughest semester yet but it will easily become your favorite. What you get out of student teaching reflects on what you put into student teaching; in other words, soak up this experience as much as possible! It can become very easy to get wrapped up in the work of student teaching. However, look at it as your time to show how awesome of a teacher you can be for your students. Don't be afraid to try new lessons with your students. They may not always be successful but that is okay! I am constantly learning what works and what doesn't work with my students. Lastly, take time for yourself; we wear many hats as a teacher for our students and it can sometimes become overwhelming. Learn to take time yourself so you can always be your best self for your students.

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

I had the opportunity to travel abroad during student teaching to Ireland. This was probably the best experience I have ever had. I was able to make so many connections with students outside of my major as well as from Edinboro University in Erie, PA. Not only were we able to travel throughout the country but we were also able to teach in the schools. I was placed in an all boys' school right outside Dublin. This was a huge change of pace for me because I have never had exposure to a same gender school before. In addition, I was nervous as to how I would connect with the students due to their accents or just being able to communicate with one another. However, the students and staff were very welcoming and they love having visitors especially from the United States. Student teaching abroad tests your ability to adapt to a new situation and quickly, as you only have a month to build a relationship with your students and co-operating teacher while living in a completely different environment. In teaching, we are constantly adapting and making quick changes in response to situations that come up in our classroom; so as a new teacher, I have really benefitted from that. Lastly, during my interviews, superintendents and school staff really found this experience interesting and will ask a lot of questions about it because it is such a rare opportunity that schools offer. Overall, this experience has really opened my eyes to the world around us and let me build connections with people that I would have never thought was possible. If you have the opportunity to student teach abroad, take it! I promise it will be the experience of a lifetime.

5. What makes a great teacher?

As I mentioned earlier, teachers wear many hats; meaning we are counselors, nurses, decorators, comedians, detectives, and so much more. When a teacher is able to show compassion towards his or her students, in my eyes-that teacher is great. Our jobs can be very stressful and overwhelming at times. It's important to always stay positive and model that positive behavior for our students. Students come from all walks of life and sometimes we are that only person in their life who is a positive role model. With that said, it's important to always be that teacher who is there for a student when they need it. It's not always about the most amazing lesson that you delivered or the beautiful materials that you provide for your students; it's about the ability to learn and connect with your students in order to build the relationships you need to become a great teacher.

Amanda Scholar

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

I attended Slippery Rock University for my Bachelor’s Degree and graduated in May of 2017. I graduated with a degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. After graduation, I was a long-term substitute within the Butler Area School District for the 2017-2018 school year. I started the year in a 7^th-9^th grade Autistic Support classroom, and I finished out the second half of that school year as a long-term substitute within a 9^th-12^th grade Emotional Support room. I am currently a 9^th grade Emotional Support teacher at Butler Intermediate High School in Butler, Pennsylvania! This is my second year of teaching and I am so excited to be teaching in my own classroom!

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is when students are willing to open up about themselves, and share their little victories with me. During my day, I am often working with students to improve their grades or helping them to complete their work. When they come in to share that they scored well on a test, or that their grade in a class is getting better, it is truly the best feeling! It makes me feel like all of my hard work is paying off, and I am excited that the students would want to take time out of their day to share that with ME! The joy and confidence that they gain from these little victories is so motivating. I love my job and am so excited to wake up in the morning and spend each day with my students!

 

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

Pay attention and ask questions!! I know those 8:00 am classes are hard, but they are so important to your development as a teacher or for any career! No assignment is pointless, take your time and put your best effort into everything you do, you will thank yourself later!

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

I do not think that I can pick just one experience or faculty member that influenced me positively. Each staff member has helped me become the teacher that I am today, and made my time at Slippery Rock such a positive experience! Simply put, they are AMAZING!

5. What makes a great teacher?

To me, a great teacher is someone who can build, and maintain, positive and motivational relationships with their students. If a student has a good relationship with a teacher, they are more likely to respect them and complete work. Students need someone who they can depend on to always encourage them and hear them out. A great teacher’s classroom is warm, welcoming, and a safe place for students. They are someone who is fun but strict, flexible but sticks to routine, and always positive! Great teachers make learning fun!

Nicole Nuske

 

 

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

I studied both at Penn State and Slippery Rock University throughout my time in college and graduated this past May of 2018. My degree is in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. This is my first year teaching! I am teaching at Lancaster Middle School in Kilmarnock, Virginia! I teach thirty-two wonderful students in the 5th grade. (Science & Reading)
 
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Honestly, it is in the little moments. The little moments like when a student overcomes a difficult concept, the BEAMING smile on their face when the bulb finally goes off. When they tell you that you make learning fun. When they share little personal things about themselves, or ask you to come to their games/concerts. Teaching is full of moments where you almost can't believe you get paid to do what you love because you're busy having fun, too!

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

To the students who are Pre-Student Teaching: Put forth your best effort at all times and do not slack off. College is hard. It is stressful. Trust me, I know! But I PROMISE, the hard work will pay off for you. Sometimes graduation seems so far away, but in the blink of an eye you will be where I am! Stay focused on the end goal. Stay focused on why you decided to become a teacher. This is where you build your GPA and perfect your work ethic and study habits. Study hard and take those CORE and PECT exams as early as possible. Watch your social media; be cautious of how you are projecting yourself. Remember, your courses are preparing you for the "real deal" so learn as much as you can.

Student Teachers: You need to distinguish yourself. My co-operating teacher told me on day 1: "This is like your very first interview, and it really matters for your future." Not once did I ever leave school before 6 or 7 p.m. Go above and beyond. Try new ideas and lessons, be creative and fun. Sign up to work school events. Don't be afraid to ask your co-op for guidance or advice. They are there to coach you. Most importantly, get to know your students and their families. You can't teach them until you reach them. Show those kids you care. Show them learning can be exciting. Show them and be a light!

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

The professors at SRU in the College of Ed. are nothing short of incredible. The professor who truly made an impact on me was Dr. Michelle McCollin. That woman was born to teach. My freshman year, when she taught me, she had me on fire for teaching! She made sure to always remind us to see the ABILITY in each child, and to look past their disability. She reminded us that when speaking with parents to be delicate with your words. "These are their babies. Their pride and joy."  She radiated positivity, passion, and heart which are three things that every teacher should have. Simply put, she was an amazing human being. I am thankful to have been taught by her.

5. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher takes the time to know their students. I can't stress that enough. You HAVE to form those relationships from day one. It is true what they say. Students might not remember everything you taught them, but they will remember you and how you treated them. How you made them feel. Think about your own education. Do you remember how your favorite teacher made you feel? Do you remember how your not-so-favorite teacher made you feel? Of course you do. You cannot be a successful teacher unless you teach with your heart. Show them you care, then the possibilities are endless.

Rachel Hunziker

 

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

            I graduated from Slippery Rock in 2017 with my Bachelors in Education. I’m certified in Elementary Education pk-4, and Special Education K-8. Currently I’m in my second year teaching the Intellectual Disabilities classroom at Floyd T. Binns Middle School in Culpeper, Virginia.

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

            The most rewarding thing is the moments of growth and success I get to experience with my students. There is no better feeling than when a student that struggles finally meets a goal they have been working on for such a long time. We invest so much into our students to build relationships and help them succeed, and knowing you helped them reach their goals is incredible. Seeing the excitement on the face of a student that feels accomplished just makes every struggle worth it.

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

                Every experience you have, whether at the time you think is good or bad, is an opportunity to learn. As educators we never stop learning even as we start teaching. Our job is hard and sometimes it can get the best of us, but every experience will make you better at what you do. Build solid relationships with your Co-ops, save the things you use for student teaching, and keep in touch with your professors. You will so glad you did when you are able to adapt an old lesson for your new class, or can call an old mentor for advice and suggestions. And above all, know that you are so prepared for what you are learning to do. I know at times I felt like I was going to have no clue what I was doing and wondered if I would retain any of what I learned. But your education has prepared you for whatever will come your way in your career.  Slippery Rock has prepared you with the tools you need to succeed.

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

                I genuinely hope everyone has a teacher like Dr. Bieniek. Coming into his class reassured me of every worry that I had with my career. He was so passionate about Special Education and the students that most people wouldn’t have a clue what to do with. Aside from teaching us amazing things in the classroom, he was an incredible mentor. Dr. B was willing to meet outside of class and even would answer phone calls when he couldn’t meet in person. He was always there as a voice of encouragement, full of support, and reassurance that I was capable of the job I accepted. He was one of the first people I went to when I got my first job offer, and I truly believe I would not be the teacher I am today had it not been for his class.

5. What makes a great teacher?

                I’d say to truly be a great teacher, above all you have to have a passion for teaching and have patience for your students. Teaching is exhausting, some lessons flop, and sometimes you go home feeling defeated. Without passion, we fall into the hole of burning out and giving up. But when you have that drive to succeed yourself and see your students succeed, you get through those hard moments. Patience is especially important, because if there is one thing I promise you’ll need, it is patience, because your students will test it. Sometimes you’ll have students that need extra attention for behaviors, or academics, or will just need to know they have an adult who cares. Patience goes a long way, especially in education.

  

Monte Chapman

 

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

- Bachelors of Science in Physics 
- Masters of Education (specializing in Physics)

- Coaching experience (Track and Field) at the youth and collegiate level
- Currently in Year 3 at West Boca Raton High School - Physics Teacher

2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Being able relate to a student and actually see that you have made a positive impact on their life/future.

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

Student Teaching will be the most important part of your growth into a teacher. You will learn more about your content area and more about yourself than you ever have. 

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

My college physics professor Dr. Mukherjee, had a great impact on my experience at SRU. Although my schedule was often hectic because of Track, she made herself available to help me when I needed and helped me when content seemed to get very challenging. Her and many other professors in the department never allowed me to give up, but instead encouraged me to press forward so I could be successful. 

5. What makes a great teacher?

I believe a great teacher has to be able to relate to the students they are teaching. They must be aware that each student learns differently and they must figure out how to make content "hit home" for students.