Emily Armentrout

 

1. What is your educational background and what positions have you held? Please include current school district and grade/s.

I earned my BS in Early Childhood Education and Dance at SRU. I am currently completing my internship for my Masters in Adapted Physical Activity. Last year I was able to work as the Graduate Assistant for the SRU Child Care Center. This year I have a full-time position at Merrill Community Schools in Merrill, MI. I am teaching Physical Education grades K-6, an Exercise and Fitness class for middle schoolers, and a Dance class for high schoolers. All of my classrooms are inclusive, with 1/3 of our district's population holding IEPs or 504s. 

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

The trips I took abroad have changed my life. I also think that my relationships with my cohort and professors were like any other in the COE. I also had the experience to travel with Dr. Alexander (and Ayanna Weems) to Georgia to present research in October of 2019. The professional experience and relationships I gained from that trip were overwhelming and I still hold those memories dear. 

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

Trust yourself and your capabilities. The support you will receive from the COE is endless and lifelong. Make connections and find your place. Be open-minded to others and always remember where you started. 

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

It's genetic.

5. What do you love most about teaching?

I love impacting my student's lives. It is important to remember that every little thing you do has an impact on your students. Knowing that I can be someone who is a "positive" in their life, and sometimes one of the only safe, reliable people in their life makes it even more important for me to be the teacher I aspire to be. My students bring me so much joy, I hope that I can provide them just as much encouragement and support that they provide me every day. 

6. What makes a great teacher?

Respect. I find that when you can respect where your students are coming from, they will return the favor. Every day is different and you might not be able to meet each student where they are that day, but when you respect your students as the individuals they are, you're golden.