Melanie Hughes

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

Bachelor of Science in Education (SRU): Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education

Early Childhood Special Education Endorsement (Lynchburg)

Master of Education with an Emphasis in Autism (SRU)

Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (WGU)

AASEP Board Certification in Special Education (NASET)

I am in my 9th year as an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher at Rising Star Early Childhood Education Center in Stafford County, Virginia.  I taught my first 6 years as a Primary Support Teacher and 3 years and currently teach in Self-Contained Autism Program.

2. What do you love most about teaching?

I love working with the 3-5 year olds because they change and grow so much over the year or two that I get to be their teacher. Our program works so closely with not only the students, but the families, and I enjoy working with them! This is also my students first school experience so I love being able to help mold the start of their schooling into a positive experience.

3. Name one SRU experience, in general or specific to the field, that you will never forget and explain why.

I have many fond memories of SRU, and I have made many life long friends and met my boyfriend while at the Rock.  One memory I have specifically pertaining to my field, was volunteering for the Exceptional Adventures Halloween Dance. It was so fun volunteering with adults with special needs and working with a group of individuals different than the elementary school students I was used to working with!

4. What initially peaked your interest in pursuing a degree in education?

When I was younger, my mom would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up and ever since the age of 3 I consistently said I wanted to be a teacher.  I loved babysitting, working as a camp counselor and volunteering for the Special Olympics.  I specifically chose SRU for the education program!

5. What makes a great teacher?

Teachers wear many hats, but a great teacher leaves positive impacts on their students, help students reach their goals and are passionate about what they do.  They focus on building positive relationships with each student, meet every student at their level and set high but obtainable goals for every student.

Karissa Lambert

1. What school district and grade/s do you currently teach?

I teach 7th Grade Learning Support at Seneca Valley School District. 

2. What do you love most about teaching?

I love watching students realize that they are capable of so much more than they expected. It is amazing to watch students gain confidence in themselves throughout the year. 

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

Take advantage of all of the amazing opportunities your professors offer for professional development. Join clubs, volunteer, and get involved. This will get you far in the field and help you become a better educator. 

4. What initially peaked your interest in pursuing a degree in education?

I have always enjoyed working with kids. I coached, babysat, and worked as a camp counselor. I realized that working with kids doesn’t feel like work to me. That’s when I knew I was meant to be a teacher. 

5. What makes a great teacher? 

A great teacher is patient, reliable, and hard working. Great teachers are willing to go above and beyond to help their students. 

Kaitlyn Goldinger

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

My degree is in Early Childhood Education. I was extremely blessed to be hired in the same school that I completed my student teaching. I have taught 3rd grade, Kindergarten, and am I currently in my third year of teaching 4th grade Math, Science, and Social Studies. 

2. What do you love most about teaching?

The thing that I love most about teaching is seeing the look in my students’ eyes when they finally grasp a new concept. That look of accomplishment in their little faces makes me so proud each and every day! 

3. Name one SRU experience, in general or specific to the field, that you will never forget and explain why.

One experience at SRU that I will never forget was my pre-student teaching experience at Slippery Rock Elementary. My mentor teacher was one of the best teachers I have ever met in my entire life. She was the perfect mix of smart, fun, kind, and intelligent, and she had such a strong influence on the teacher that I have become today. SRU College of Ed did such a wonderful job preparing us for the field as well, and that experience was what made me realize that I was meant to teach. 

4. What attracted you to Slippery Rock University, and in particular, the education department?

Slippery Rock had always been on my radar when choosing a college. I was actually a transfer student during my freshman year. My older cousin was in the Education program, and she always had nothing but good things to say about her courses and professors. When I visited campus for a tour, I was treated with such kindness and respect; I felt right at home even on that very first day! I was also very impressed with the Education program and professors, and I knew it would prepare me to be a successful teacher. On top of all of that, campus is gorgeous and all of the experiences and activities that are offered were a huge plus!

5. What makes a great teacher?

When it comes down to it, what makes a great teacher is love. Love of learning, and even more importantly, love of our students. A great teacher will do whatever it takes to make sure their students are successful and happy. Seeing the look in their eyes when they are learning something new fills your heart and makes you appreciate this opportunity that we were given. Whether you are having a wonderful year, or are facing a lot of challenges in the classroom, just remember how much you love those children and how important you are to them. Spreading the love of learning to the next generation is one of the greatest gifts we can give.