Jake Klukaszewski

 

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

I studied at CCAC Boyce, Penn State New Kensington, and finally Slippery Rock where I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education with a focus in Social Studies/History. I completed my student teaching at Huston Middle School in Lower Burrell, PA. I am currently in my first year teaching at North Star Middle School in Somerset County, PA where I teach 6th Grade Social Studies.

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

My practicum experience at Lakeview High School was instrumental in my journey to certification. Dr. Hogue was phenomenal in helping me grow as a future educator. My co-op was also amazing and let me teach as many lessons as I wanted to. I was able to teach juniors and seniors, and during my student teaching experience I was able to teach middle school. It really helped me get the most out of my college teaching experience.

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

Three come to mind, Dr. Hicks, Dr. Christmann, and Dr. Hogue. All three gave me the tools necessary for teaching an effective lesson, creating an effective unit, and they also helped me prep for the interview process. Without these three men, I would not be where I am today.

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

My dad is a teacher, my mom is in education, and my sister is a teacher as well. It is in my blood and I knew it was something I wanted to pursue to make a difference in young people's lives.

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

Seeing the growth of students daily, and seeing students who never had a real interest in social studies grow a love for the class and subject as a whole. It's definitely the coolest part of the job.

6. What makes a great teacher?

Empathy, Kindness, and Flexibility. You need to be able to put yourself in your student's shoes to find out what makes them tick and what makes them want to learn. You need to be kind, in particular to kids who act out or tend to struggle the most, because these are the kids that need the most care. You also need to be flexible, because a lesson that works for one student or class, might not work for the next one!